It Seems Like Only Yesterday

Coming back to work after a three-day weekend. Funny how things change. Thought about the previous job earlier today. How I would show up in the mornring, and my largest contribution to the workplace was making the coffee. Talking for hours about American Culture with my Ukrainian boss. Sending out emails, clarifying statements, writing papers, placing all of my ducks in a row for school.

Showing up on the morning of Memorial Day, bus on a holiday schedule, to a dark office. Turn up the music, take the cordless phone into the server room and stare out at the free people down at Pioneer Square. Always tired in that air, always stifled.

Having to dial the same 24 numbers eight times per day, once per hour, 120 times per week, until you recited them in your sleep.

Two years later, waking late, coffee, writing, lesson plans, pets, laundry.

Sometimes I miss the private sector, but never on a three day weekend.