Reflections on the Best Jobs: A Journey from Street Lighting to Wildlife Conservation

Throughout my career, I've had several memorable jobs, each with its unique set of challenges and rewards. One of the numerous roles that stood out was being a street light fixer in 19th-century London, and another was teaching at an Early Intervention school for children with autism. The final and most recent job, as a wetlands and wildlife biologist, provided a thrilling mix of adventure and responsibility. Each experience shaped my perspective and taught me invaluable lessons.

Street Lighting in Victorian London

My journey as a street light fixer in 19th-century London was a significant part of my early career. It involved the maintenance and lighting of oil lamps on the city's streets. The task of making London's streets shine was not just a job; it was a cultural duty. I relished the fact that I was contributing to the aesthetic beauty of the city, which I often compared to the way a bride looks adorned in her finest attire.

However, the advent of electric lighting marked the end of this era. As technology advanced, the old oil lamps were gradually replaced, and my career came to an end. This experience taught me the importance of embracing change and the fleeting nature of certain professions. It also instilled in me a sense of nostalgia for the craftsmanship and artistry of the past.

Teaching in an Early Intervention School for Autistic Children

Following my time as a street light fixer, I transitioned into a new chapter as an Early Intervention teacher in an school for children with severe autism. My classroom was unique, with a maximum of eight students, an assistant, an aide, and various therapists. The environment was designed to cater to the unique needs of these children, creating a supportive and enriching learning atmosphere.

While the pay was modest, the love for working with these children and supporting their development made it an immensely rewarding experience. The role entailed a range of responsibilities that extended beyond traditional teaching, including handling heavy lifting and managing incidents of violence. Despite the challenges, the interactions with the children were deeply fulfilling, fostering a sense of personal and professional satisfaction.

The job also had its downsides, particularly the physical strain. Over two years, I experienced a significant increase in back problems. These ailments ultimately forced me to undergo major surgery and led me to a new career path as a high school teacher.

Wetlands and Wildlife Biologist: An Environmental Odyssey

My final and most recent job was as a wetlands and wildlife biologist, working for an environmental consulting firm. The job involved assisting both private and government clients in maintaining compliance with environmental regulations related to wetlands and endangered species. We conducted fieldwork in diverse locations across the southeastern USA, Central, and South America, as well as for various governmental and military projects.

Additionally, our firm provided technical assistance to other nations in identifying appropriate locations for water/wastewater plants or conducting wildlife surveys. The opportunity to be named the expert in such capacities was a source of great pride and ego fulfillment. The job often involved extended periods of solitude in remote wilderness areas, equipped with dehydrated food, bug spray, and waterproof notebooks. However, the physical demands of this role, exacerbated by a pre-existing back condition, eventually led to severe health issues that culminated in my medical retirement.

While I have moved on from this position, I still miss the freedom and adventure of living and working in the wilderness. The experiences gained from these roles continue to influence my outlook on life and career. Each job provided a unique set of challenges, rewards, and lessons that shaped who I am today.

Lessons from these experiences include the importance of adaptability, the value of human connection and giving back, and the need to balance physical health with a fulfilling career. These reflective thoughts serve as a reminder of the diverse paths one can take in life and the meaningful impact a job can have beyond just financial gain.