It finally happened.

I lost my virginity!

Just kidding. That happened years ago. (Sorry, sister. Sometimes you just have to say these things.)

Anyway, a dude came into the restaurant who I recognized. Since the place is close to a relatively small number of offices, when I see someone I recognize, I usually figure it’s a regular, and pay them no mind. He kind of lingered by the door, waiting for someone. When his friend came in, they came up to order. His friend goes, “have you eaten here before?” and he’s like “Oh, yeah,” confirming (or so I thought) my belief that he was a regular. I continue to pay him no mind (other than the usual, you know, customer service mind). As I’m toasting his tortilla he asks, “Did you used to work downtown?” And I turn around and say yes. “Retek?” I turn around slightly and meekly and I nod.

He worked (and, shit, still may for all I know) in my office when I was a high-rolling computer programmer. That was awkward. I mean, we never worked together, and I’d be fucked if you asked me his name, or even what he did. But it was the first encounter I’ve had with someone at work who knows–who knows–about my old life. And then watches me put rice onto a tortilla.

Honestly, the thing I’ve been freaking out about the most, in regard to the new job is seeing someone from my old team. That would be really awkward. Someone who knows I got shit-canned and is wondering what I’ve been up to, and then sees me slinging burritos for less than half what I used to make–someone who would really think I’ve lowered myself.

I don’t regret changing my station in life, and I don’t apologize for it, but I do like having the opportunity to explain myself, or else have people just assume that I’m the type of guy who works in a fast food restaurant, and always has been.