The main reason I continue to work long after the official retirement age is the people. Depending on how you approach them, they are invariably delightful. In my job as a chartered ergonomist I get to present at trade shows on occasion. This requires me to stay overnight in hotels. A fewyears ago I was presenting at an office furniture trade show in Auckland and having had a good night's sleep went down to the hotel restaurant for a buffet breakfast. Greeting the female staff member working at the cooked food section of the restaurant I received the response: "You're not from round here are you?" "No, I'm not. How can you tell?" "It's the accent dearie, we get all sorts in here, Russians, Americans, Chinese - even the South Island. They all speak differently. Anyway, where are you from?" "Whanganui." "No, I mean originally." "The Midlands of Britain." "How long have you lived here?" "Over 40 years, but I'm saving up for the operation." "What operation's that?" "The one to change my accent." "Can they do that?" "Absolutely, but it's not cheap. I've saved enough for an Australian accent, but if I want a New Zealand one it'll cost another $5000." "If I were you dearie, I'd carry on saving, it'll be much nicer in the end." "I think you're right. Anyway, it's been pleasant talking with you." "You're welcome dearie. Have a nice day." P.S. For interested readers, I've almost got the extra $5000, and Santa's coming.
