* * * * *
                                        
                          Memoirs of a baggage handler
                                        
> Today is my last day of work at the best job I ever had. I was a ramp
> worker for a major airline in Las Vegas. I am being laid off in the Great
> Purge of 2008: the massive airline cutbacks triggered by astronomical fuel
> prices.
> 
> Before you cry for me, I assure you that losing the best job I ever had is
> one of the best things that ever happened to me. One of the perks of
> working for an airline is that you get to fly free (or nearly free)
> wherever your airline goes. The only downer is that they also make you
> “work” on a regular schedule, which severely cuts into ones vacation time.
> Now, thanks to the negotiations of my union, I get to keep my basic flight
> benefits during my furlough period—for up to three years or until I am
> rehired—without the inconvenience of work. My only burden now is not having
> any money to travel with, but it still feels like I have won the lottery.
> 

“Zen and the Art of Baggage Handling [1]”

A long but interesting look at baggage handling and the perks of being on,
and off, the job.

[1] http://kilroycafe.blogspot.com/2008/09/zen-and-art-of-baggage-

Email Sean Conner at sean@conman.org

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