Always Befriend the Caretaker

Rule number one I learned in my workistry is to befriend the caretaker. I always smile, say hello, ask how he is, and give him a little wave. He has come to me a few times with things he needs help with, and I'm always happy to help and listen. In return, he's always happy to help me with setting up for programs and for solving problems that I encounter.

Last weekend a locked storage area where I keep my program materials was broken into by some unknown party. While nothing major was missing, I was concerned since I have spent hundreds of dollars on food, drinks, sporting equipment and various other items necessary to run my programming. The caretaker promised to try to make it more secure this week.

Today he called me over to the area and made me a proposal; he would clean out one of his cupboards and allow me to store my things there, where they would be more secure and hidden from view. I gratefully accepted and he helped me relocate all of my supplies to the new area. Within thirty minutes, we had exchanged keys, he made some suggestions about how we might better use the space and he offered to look for some storage solutions for us. I was delighted and relieved not to have to worry about my supplies during the coming weekend.

A few hours later, he appeared at my office door bearing a single red rose. He said it was the last of the season and found it in the garden, and gifted it to me. I was delighted! Roses are my favourite. I brought it home tonight and placed it in a central place in my living room where I can enjoy it on my days off.

Always befriend the caretaker.