I haven't had much time, as of late, to read anything, be it magazines or books or online articles. But, as I was checking into my yahoo at lunch, I came across this article.
Having worked for nine years in the same casino's various restaurants, I was outraged at the arrogance of this banker. A "real" job? Please define "real." If we were all bankers, who would provide utilities to the banker's office? Or stock the shelves at the banker's grocer? Or clean and press the banker's suit? If there were no demand for the services each of our jobs offer, the jobs wouldn't exist. More importantly, a significant portion of the investment income the banker deals with undoubtedly is the fruit of these labors.
Did I enjoy working nights and weekends and holidays at the casino? No, I sure didn't. But for a right-out-of high school graduate with no degree to ultimately make $60k per year (fully clothed) is otherwise unheard of. My career (and yes, I think nine years substantiates a career no matter what industry) in waitressing afforded me the opportunity to make ends meet, put myself through school and be at home with my daughter (during the day) during her early years. I think that qualifies as a "real" job.
While this article alludes to the ongoing 1 vs 99% "battle," I think this is just another example that assholes come in all shapes and sizes and from all socio-economic backgrounds. During my nine years at the casino, I dealt with many members of the 1%, and I was never treated with such disrespect. In fact, it was in dealing with the 99% that I dealt with the most hostility (most likely from their having spent money they never had to spend at the casino).
I thought for some time about the ultimately repercussion to come of said banker, but nothing seems appropriate. If humility came in doses, I would serve him two. And not even ask for a tip.
