Ketchup Hits the Fan

“Where were you Sunday?” Placido said. “I was at the John Mayer concert. I asked off that night.” I replied. “Well, you weren’t here and you’re a no show.” he continued.

“Okay, Placido, I don’t know what’s going on. I asked off.  Everyone knew I was going to hear John Mayer. I’m here tonight. What job do you want me to do?” “Oh, your usual cashier. Glad you’re here.” he said.

Tall Boss appeared with the register money prior to opening. “Smokie, you were a no-show last night. Where were you?"

This refrain is getting too familiar. If I’m one thing, it is reliable and on time. For heavens sake, that’s one thing I'm known for. On four or five occasions I’ve heard “Where were you last night?” Monday night is class. I made a commitment for this class every Monday night through mid Sept.

"What’s going on with the no-show?" I wonder. "I request time off as told. Placido, Tall Boss and fellow Handsomes and Squirrelettes know I won’t be there. They know it’s either class or my ‘real’ job. What’s the deal? Am I getting scheduled when he knows I won’t be there? Is this a set up? I’m a bottom-level-making-$7.50-per-hour-employee. What’s the problem?" I ask myself. One thing I’ve learned is that game night is not the time to discuss anything with Tall Boss. Note to self – this research on Leadership from the Bottom Up is interesting.

That evening the pace was leisurely with a steady line that moved quickly. Patrons were awake and remembered what they wanted when they got to me - a treat in itself. It was Scout night. Fry Guy was on top of Squirrely fries as that’s food of choice for Scouts of all genders and ages. Yes, there are food trends and patterns for various fan groups.

About 8:30 pm Placido said “It’s time to cut back. Smokie, you can go now. And Tall Boss said if you can’t be here next Tuesday, don’t come back.” “My company is having an event next Tuesday and I have to be there. I told Tall Boss that when I requested that night off and he understood. I think he heard me.” I recounted. “He said if you can’t be here next Tuesday, don’t come back.” Placido repeated. “So I’m fired?” I asked. “Guess that’s right.” Placido said quietly. I was fired. Where is Donald Trump's flair and showmanship?

Wanting to leave on good terms and take the high road, in a state of shock, I went to each Handsome and Squirrelette, told them how much I enjoyed knowing them and wished them the best of everything. Princess gave me a big hug. To my surprise Placido asked for a hug and said “I’m going to miss you.”