Community Involvement Ch. 10 - Sex Stories

Community Involvement Ch. 10

... was going to be the recipient of my rant, whether she like it or not. “You call yourself a professional? I scoff at your folly. With all due respect, and please don’t take this personally, but your position and those of your ilk, are parasitic when it comes to the employment industry. You get paid regardless of whether I get a job today, tomorrow, next week…” I took a deep breath as a waiter approached. I assured him I would be on my way in a few minutes and he backed off. “Abby, do you know what the problem with seeking employment in Sydney is, or the rest of Australia, for that matter?” She looked nervous and on the verge of tears as she shook her head. “Of course you don’t. You people are the problem . All the recruitment agencies… you all profess to be experts in getting people their dream jobs. Here’s how it goes; I am 55 and I go to an agency and get interviewed by a non-Australian, usually British, who is no more than 30. They sit there and make judgements based on ticking boxes and pigeon holing me, just like you have been doing. They would not have a clue about half of the stuff in my CV and what I am telling them yet they hold me to ransom just so they can get the placement fee. You and the agencies are all care and no responsibility. Now, as a display of my professional attitude, I am going to the cash register, I will pay for our order, and then I am going to walk away with my head held high because I know my worth, I know how to conduct myself. I care about me ...

... and I take responsibility for my actions. Sit there and reflect if you wish, just don’t try and tell me you know what is best for me or what I am, or not, doing. Like a lot of things in life, if I need something doing, I am better off doing it myself. Just remember what I have told you…all care no responsibility…and no accountability either. Enjoy your coffee.” I turned and started to leave. An elderly gent at a table I was about to pass touched my arm and praised me for my rant. I smiled and thanked him kindly and then noticed the whole cafe was looking at me. Not only were they looking, they were agreeing with me and some were even applauding. I started to feel embarrassed, humbled even. Without thinking I raised my arm slightly to thank them for their support. I was in a state of bewilderment as I paid the owner and apologised for making a fuss. He gave me his business card and said if I need a job to come and see him. He even went so far as to offer me free coffee next time I was in, all I had to do was present his card. As I walked out into the mall my eyes brimmed with tears. The heart ache of the unemployment cycle and being constantly rejected had finally broken through my toughened facade. I did not care if what had just transpired equated to burning a bridge, I knew in my heart I was better off dealing with these issues on my own terms. I did not look back at Abby. I did not want to see her face ever again and I cursed her for all she was worth and for making me feel ...