When I Was a Chambermaid

When I was twenty-two and lived
In Israel for a spell,
I needed cash and got a job
In a small seaside hotel.

We worked in teams to clean the rooms;
We vacuumed, dusted, scrubbed -
The hardest work I’d ever done
(‘Til teaching, when I subbed).

One little tidbit I recall
Involved the bathroom goals -
Fresh towels, washcloths, bath mat
And new toilet paper rolls.

We never left a started roll
Nor tissue box half-filled,
For seeing something someone used
Would make guests less than thrilled.

I doubt if that’s the case today.
Though I don’t really care, 
In my current hotel bathroom,
Two half-rolls were hanging there.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2024

Poem

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Wolf Avatar
February 8, 2024 at 5:27 PM
I wonder if a half-roll of toilet paper in a hotel is meant for a customer who is half-assed. Wuddya think?
Greenhough Avatar
February 7, 2024 at 11:03 PM
This was funny. I've noticed that service has been downgraded in hotels. I still tip, realizing the maids are probably being shortchanged, too.
Rolland Avatar
February 6, 2024 at 10:18 PM
a difficult job, with rare consideration, i admire you, a part of life that is good memory, i guess
Rigoler Avatar
February 6, 2024 at 7:32 PM
Better half a roll or less than none at all, I say! / Maurice
Brotherton Avatar
February 6, 2024 at 3:20 PM
It's the same with all jobs nowadays, I think. Back in the day, you did your best no matter what we were doing. Even when we hated it. Now, no one cares about anybody but themselves.
Borke Avatar
February 6, 2024 at 2:27 PM
Was the toilet paper green crepe paper, like it was it 1972 when I first went?
Kaufman Avatar
February 6, 2024 at 12:01 PM
Hi Ilene, Thanks for posting this long ago job of yours. Wouldn't it be funny if they had a contest on this site of all the different job hats people have worn in this life? I've done a lot of job/career hopping in my time and could be in the Guiness book of world records I think. I am glad you were blessed with an opportunity to travel at such a young age. Travel broadens ones perspective so. Enjoyed!
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