A Job Interview
I recognized the expression on his face. Eyebrow raised, mouth half open.
He tipped his head to the side. “It’s so nice to meet you.” Behind his head hung a print with a fat pink salmon swimming above the word “PERSISTENCE” in bold block letters.
“Thank you,” I replied. It wasn’t nice for him, but it’s nice to pretend.
“Can I get you anything before we begin? A glass of ---- water?” He almost choked.
“No, thank you,” I replied. I folded my hands and smiled. “I’d love to get started.”
He was sweating, the beads glittering on his bald head and dripping off like water off a rock. “So...I’d love to know...obviously you must be an excellent swimmer...but -”
“Isn’t the job for a full time swim instructor and lifeguard?” I asked. We both knew the answer. He just wasn’t used to seeing candidates like me. I bit my lip and it tasted like salt.
“It is. But I’m not sure we can accommodate someone with your…” he fumbled, dropping his words like stones off a bridge.
Normally, I’m patient. But on this day, I just really needed a job. “I’m fully capable of performing all tasks in the water.”
“But on land?” his eyes were bulging now, and I knew he was forcing himself not to strain over the top of the desk to get a better look. That I’m used to, but it doesn’t ever get any more pleasant.
“I can accommodate myself.” I knew he was mostly afraid that I’d require something extra. Some special entrance, or access from the pool to a nearby creek. He imagined I’d need an underwater tunnel to get to work, or something equally absurd. I’d made it to the interview, hadn’t I? Mostly, what I’ve found up here is that people lack imagination.
“You won’t be needing someone to...to...transport you to work? I know someone with your...unique...alternative to legs might need additional assistance?”
I laughed. That was a new one. “Alternative to legs” - like I’d just been shopping and decided something shimmery and finned was more my style than two legs with thighs and calves. Like I had a choice.
Usually, I just smile. Today, I jutted out my chin. “I might ask you the same question. How does someone as fat as you manage it?”
He turned the color of coral. “I’m sure we would love to have your expertise here. You may start on Monday, Ms. Meermin.”