Work Shoes

I had a pair of shoes that were nothing fancy, in fact I'd never wear them anywhere else but to work. They supported me through college, walked on restaurant floors and greasy kitchens, through bar areas with spilled beer, and even supported me running after people who didn't pay their bills. For years, I waited for the day when I could throw those shoes away and close that chapter of late nights, living on tips and serving food. Four months into my post college job, I cleaned out my closet and tossed them, along with the old uniforms, aprons and name tags from the service industry business. Three weeks ago, I needed them again. A new pair has taken their place and I'm back to the late nights and the hustle. I know it's just temporary, I'm still a teacher but without a class. So for now, it's back to slinging drinks and being humbled at 1 am when someone I went to school with comes in and asks what I've been up to. The chapters of life may close, but the book remains open and at times we need to refer back to earlier chapters in order to influence the ending. I think it will be awhile before I throw those shoes away again.