In a conversation with a fellow flight attendant, Rhonda, she told me how much she enjoys her work. And, it shows through her works ethics, how she interacts with passengers and, most importantly, she is someone I want beside me if the stuff ever hits the fan. Working as a flight attendant fits her. It offers her something that tugs at her heart and keeps her coming to work. I can relate to all of that as a photographer. I’ve often asked myself why I spend time seeing the world through a cameras viewfinder then post processing those images. To some that’s a waste of time, yet to a photographer something tugs at our hearts and holds us as willing captive tin it’s grip.
I’ve been at this flight attendant work for almost 4 years. I seldom share why I show up at the gate at 4:45 in the morning when it’s 20 degrees outside and then present a safety demonstration to passengers who would rather I shut-up and let them sleep. (Now that’s grumpy, Earl!) Well, I do it because of the people. It doesn’t matter their age, gender, color, culture, status or if their grumpy. They are people wanting to safely get from here to there and placing their trust in us. So, I show up.
Another reason I do it is because of the views. As my conversation with Rhonda continued along I heard myself tell her how I moved from working in a cubicle to working in a tubicle. And, oh how that view changed dramatically. n all honesty the cubicle had no view while flying has breathtaking views that change constantly. I don’t always get a chance to check out the views but every once in a while I can take a quick peek out the window and let out a long “Aaahhh” along with those passengers (who are awake). The above image is an example and was taken with my iphone. So, the views are another reason I show up.
I want to make sure you understand that I do not do this work for the money. I repeat I do not do this work for the money. The simple reason for that is because there isn’t any to be made. But, I show up anyway because of the above reasons and few others that I won’t bore you with now.
10 Comments
Earl
Wow, now that’s an office view. From all of us who sometimes fly…thanks for showing up, Monte!
Monte Stevens
Thanks, Earl!
Steve Skinner
In my life I have found that doing things that matter seldom are the same thing I might do to earn money.
Monte Stevens
You are right again.
Ken
Really nice image, Monte. I think your grumpy customers think flight attendants are only nice to people because they’re paid to be nice. I think that it takes a special kind of person to do what you do, one who is kind and helpful and wants those in their care be safe and comfortable without being intrusive. So to you and all the other FAs, thanks.
Monte Stevens
Thanks, Ken. But, I must admit to not always being that nice. I can become quite frustrated with passengers and through my tone of voice let them know it.
QPB (Mary Ann)
I sat with my attorney on a flight a few months ago, coming home from a conference. She was horridly nervous. The flight attendant made the entire difference. He engaged her, he checked on her, and he comforted her. Thanks for showing up, indeed. 🙂
Monte Stevens
You are welcome as some of us can and will do that.
Paul
What a heck of an office view that is! I love gazing out of the window and looking at the tops of clouds. Lovely shot, Monte.
Monte Stevens
Thanks, Paul! There is a price for this view and I choose it for now. I’ve witnessed some awesome sights up there. It’s also amazing how many people never look for these opportunities. Have a great weekend!