Heard about your boy

On Sunday afternoon, a unusual day off for me, got to go for a wonderful bike ride with Shatty through the city. We talked about life, restaurants, and the two best things that came out of New Jersey. He also mentioned that he saw an old co-workers of ours and may of the contributors of this blog. This former co-worker had gotten fired from his job of 10+ years after numerous chances to behave himself. The "Old-Man" was a serious drinker but also unreliable and horrible to work with. But I have a soft spot for him and I feel really bad for him right now. He was kicked out of his apartment and is now living at the shelter with no prospects of a job. Has he hit rock bottom? Is this good for him in a, you need to learn a lesson, kind of way? Should I go give him 20 bucks? I can't say I have ever known anyone who has fallen this far.

One of my amazing co-workers got fired last Friday night. The owner drove two hours from her vacation house to fire him. He was two hours late, again. He was a pain in the ass to work with. Besides the obviously not learning the menu, he could not close the door behind him or even wash his hands after taking the trash out. I don't mind reminding co-workers to do certain things, god knows I forget too, but washing your hands!? Gross. This is one of the servers who would get upset when he was not tipped more then 20%.

The sad part is he had a baby girl three weeks ago. He got a lot of slack due to the fact of newborn excitement and sleepless nights. Everyone felt bad for his wife and child. I could not imagine going home and telling my wife I got fired weeks after she carried my child for nine months. We have debated whether he knew he was on thin-ice or not. Some people think he wanted to get fired to collect unemployment, I do not think he is or will ever be that smart.

He was told he could no longer work with us at 7pm, just before service, and was allowed to stay and work that evening. I have only been fired a few times and each time I did not stay and work my shift. I wish him luck and hope everything works out for his family.

Now for some good news. After many long hours and consecutive days I was given a raise and a promotion, which I did not ask for. I loath asking for a raise. Nothing makes me happier then when a owner/superior recognizes my hard work. It feels so good to know the little things are noticed and appreciated.