Fast-food workers deserve a break, too

Most of us have eaten at fast food restaurants. And often, as we are in line to get our orders, we observe the goings-on in the work area on the opposite side of the counter.

As I’ve watched the chaotic hustle and bustle of the order takers, cleaning workers, cooks and supervisors, it reminds me of the workers in the stock and commodity exchanges. Both are intense, stressful jobs. They have very different salary ranges. But both places have folks trying to do their jobs the best they can.

I’ve stopped using deprecating slogans about fast food workers. I know I’d have a hard time doing their jobs. Instead, I’ve tried to compliment the workers at McDonald’s, Wendy’s, pizza parlors, Burger King, and hot dog places.

Please look for things workers do well and then thank them for their efforts. Complimenting a worker for quickly cleaning off a table for you, or for making a great hamburger, or making excellent fries can put a smile of appreciation on their face for a well-deserved “good job.”

Jim Peterson

Hoffman Estates