Today is my last day of work at the best job I ever had. I was a ramp
worker for a major airline in Las Vegas. I am being laid off in the Great
Purge of 2008: the massive airline cutbacks triggered by astronomical fuel
prices.
Before you cry for me, I assure you that losing the best job I ever had
is one of the best things that ever happened to me. One of the perks of
working for an airline is that you get to fly free (or nearly free)
wherever your airline goes. The only downer is that they also make you
“work” on a regular schedule, which severely cuts into ones vacation time.
Now, thanks to the negotiations of my union, I get to keep my basic flight
benefits during my furlough period—for up to three years or until I am
rehired—without the inconvenience of work. My only burden now is not having
any money to travel with, but it still feels like I have won the
lottery.
Zen and the Art of Baggage Handling
A long but interesting look at baggage handling and the perks of being on,
and off, the job.
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![[Self-portrait with my new glasses]](https://www.conman.org/people/spc/about/2025/0925.t.jpg "Glasses. Titanium, not steel.")