This is an old post for Sunday favorites!
For more go visit Chari over at Happy to Design
By Lynn GuinnI recall standing on my rollerblades, on a bridge, at end of Brookhurst, in Huntington Beach and watching the construction crew building a new jetty. I was especially interested in the backhoe operator. All he was doing was sitting there moving two “joysticks” back and forth. It was during the last few years when my career as a teacher was getting to me. I wanted to trade jobs with him, OH, so bad.
I imagined a job where one didn’t have to spend so much time solving unsolvable problems. A job where one could be blissfully unaware that there were children being born to parents who were less capable of caring for a child than two doorknobs would be.
Joysticks back and forth… Imagine a job where you weren’t responsible for the well-being, health, education, and sometimes, complete future of so many human beings.
Back and forth… No lives falling through the cracks before your very eyes.
At no time would a backhoe operator’s hair stand on end from reading the Department of Human Services report on the newest feature that had been added to his job.
A backhoe operator would never have to find shelter for someone who was being abused by her father.
A backhoe operator probably NEVER said the words, “I think I’ll get a less stressful job, like maybe an air traffic controller or a brain surgeon.”
I finally got old and retired.
Today I operated the backhoe that my husband bought when we moved up here to God’s country. I stayed on it for several hours.
I - WAS - RIGHT!
It is so much fun! It is more fun than a video game. I found out that the sticks get to move side to side as well as back and forth, and what fun! I can’t believe backhoe drivers get paid for doing that; and probably more than teachers get paid!
Nobody’s getting me off of this machine. I am going to landscape this place until it is unrecognizable. Now, why did I choose such a hard job when I could have been a backhoe operator?
I’m going to make little streams, and walls, and gardens and…
7 comments:
Lynn, that was a very thought provoking post. I agree with you, but you know what? No one will remember a backhole operator. THere are kids out there who will grow up and remember you and the affect you had on them long, long after you leave this earth. That's why you made a good choice.
You look cute operating that thing. Have fun digging up your yard!
I hope the riding mower is fun this afternoon. I'm not looking forward to it this time because my shoulders are sore from the chiropractor and my massage, and it is hot out there.
In my opinion, all teachers deserve to do whatever makes them happy when they retire. They've earned it! Happy digging!
I think you've got the best of both worlds - a former profession that has to be both the most rewarding and most frustrating, all at the same time. And now that you're retired, a new profession that lets you play in the dirt! Have FUN! Kathy
Hi Lynn...
My friend, I can completely identify with you! I worked in the education field for a number of years...later on working with special needs children, specifically autistic students. I finally just "burned out"! I really hate admitting that...but it's true! It was so nice reading the other comments left above...that teachers are appreciated and being reminded of the impact that we have on those little ones!!!
Soooo...I'm just ecstatic for you, my dear...that you finally got to operate a backhoe and that you just had the time of your life doing it!!! Awesome!!!
Warmest wishes,
Chari
You. Are. Awesome. I think I'd have a blast playing digger.
I can't sleep tonight, so I got to come over and play catch-up.
Your outdoor Wednesday was lovely.
Happy Thanksgiving [late]!
I love your Asian pedi post too - you so funny.
As one of your former students... I am soooo very thankful that you did choose to be a teacher. You were amazing at it. One of my very favorites!
I am loving your blog!
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