In the chapter, Barabara Abelhauser found her calling, and it was to be a bridgetender. She was miserable with her old job as a state employee and wanted a job that promotes relaxation and peacefulness. The two major conclusions I made about this profile were that having the job of your dreams, you have to be okay with the downfalls of it since Abelhauser’s job as a bridgetender that has horrible pay and terrible benefits. Well, that did not stop her because this job made her happy, and she was excited to go to work, and most importantly, she loved it. She knew that money doesn't buy happiness. One could have all of these great things, but if they are not happy, does it matter that they have money and all of these benefits. Another conclusion is that though she does not have this great job that others would necessarily want, she gets to experience things others do not. She gets to see the entire city and see it in ways that others do not. Abelhauser also gets to see people and understand people in new ways. She hears everything people say and sees more than most people have. Though this job does not bring all good things considering she has seen people lose limbs, she still now understands more than what she used to and more than others. Through this job, she learned to appreciate people and things in the way she has never before.
An excellent direct quote from this profile is, “Most people do not stop to smell the roses, but I get to smell the roses eight hours a day. It is amazing” (Isay 21). It reveals that she takes her time to take in the world and what it has to offer. She doesn't breeze over it and notices things that other people cannot, and it helps promote zen.
A research question: What is the importance of bridgetenders?
Bridgetenders serve as the brains behind motorized and mechanical bridges, operating them as a form of traffic guard in order to allow watercraft and vehicles safe passage around a waterway.
website used: https://www.careermatch.com/job-prep/career-insights/profiles/bridge-tender/ |
| The Ortega River Bridge Opening |
Hey Tammy! I found it really interesting how Barbara found bridge tending to be so relaxing and peaceful as many would not. I am really glad that you research question helped me understand more of what a bridgetender does!
ReplyDeleteI really like Barbara's job, it is really interesting and she has an awesome view everyday.
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