A Journey Out of Hate: My Last Farewell to Retail

It's not every day we find ourselves leaving a job after a decade and a half, but that's exactly what happened to me. I spent 14 years in a retail environment, only to be fired for using a rewards card instead of the company discount. Looking back, it was the straw that broke the camel's back.

Leaving the Stores We Love

The story began when the retail chain I worked for decided to end their lease and close the store. This happened a mere year before my intended departure. While they extended severance benefits to all employees, no one else in my position was promoted. Frustration mounted as I reflected on my situation.

That year off was supposed to be my chance to move, but life had other plans. The uncertainty and downward spiral of still being in retail made me realize it was time to break free from the cycle I had been in for so long. I took a job with a much lower salary but offered new experiences and opportunities for advancement.

A New Path with Hopes and Dreams

I was excited about the new position as it promised to offer new skills and responsibilities. With the option to live on company property for free and the chance to transfer to other locations across the city, the prospects seemed promising. However, as with most jobs, reality hit hard.

The manager I worked under was old-school and un-professional. He was, admittedly, a bit younger than me, but his actions and attitudes towards his subordinates raised serious concerns. Stories of his supposed clubbing days and inappropriate behavior with others presented a toxic environment where professional development was the farthest thing from his mind.

The Turning Point

Things took a turn for the worse when a company vehicle went missing. My efforts to investigate and uncover the truth were frustrated when the manager falsely accused me and even contacted higher-ups. My resolve to investigate further and prove my innocence began to wane as my work hours were cut back. I knew something had to change.

During my final day at work, the sun was setting, and the view of the horizon brought me to a realization. Walking out of the store, I was humbled but determined to find a new path. I stopped by a new store that was opening in an adjacent building and applied for a position. In a twist of fate, I officially left my last retail job with less than two months worked. By the end of the day, I was no longer in that environment, and my journey to find a better fit had just begun.

As the sun set that day, I couldn't help but think of a song that seemed to echo the sentiments of my departure:

It's been such a long time
I think I should be goin’ yeah
Time doesn't wait for men
It keeps on rollin’
Sail on on a distant highway yeah
I've got to keep on chasin' a dream
I've got to be on my way
Wish there was something I could say

Now, nearly a decade later, I am still in the same job, loving every moment of it. I strongly believe it will be the final chapter in my retail career, but for now, I am content in the knowledge that I have found a place where my hard work is appreciated and valued.