by Derek—2004.08.25 @ 2040
I never thought I'd be back, least of all armed with a Master's Degree. However improbable, I've begun work again at Little Caesars Pizza, just down the street from where my parents live. Since I won't be starting Basic Training for over a month, I thought it would be a good idea to earn a little money to pay our bills until I'm paid by Uncle Sam.
Although I've only been back at Little Caesars for a few days, I've already picked up on most of the tasks I did back in high school: making dough, prepping pans, "dressing" the pizza, cutting and boxing, and even washing dishes. Even with all the familiarity, there is a lot that's changed. For example, during my first tour of duty, Little Caesars sliced their own cheese from big blocks. Now, cheese comes pre-cut in bags.
It is strange to go back to an old high-school job. In some ways it is like re-living a part of your life that you closed years ago. I'm surrounded by high school students who still talk about the same petty issues as I did when I was their age. I don't really fit in; I'm too old. The music that is blarring all day is strange too. I don't remember REM and U2 being as bad, but I guess it is all in the eyes of the youth.
Now, Little Caesars is just a job. It isn't exciting any more, and some of the tasks I thought were tedious, difficult, or complicated seem less so today. Now I'm just grinding away at a grindstone. It sure makes having a job you really enjoy all the more worth while.