It is a sad fact of life that people often pass cruel judgements on others based on their place of work. But you would hope to have the full support of your friends and family once you've found the path that's right for you.
Unfortunately, one hardworking mum ended up on the receiving end of cruel comments from a friend after she told her she secured a job at McDonald's.
The woman previously worked in a role related to her degree, but she found she had to widen her net when looking for new opportunities after she was made redundant last year.
Fortunately, she found a role in one of the chain's fast food restaurants with hours that 'fit in perfectly' around her children, and the flexibility is great for her family, as she hopes to start a Master's degree in October. However, one of her friends criticised her decision during a recent catch up.
Explaining what happened in a post to Mumsnet, the parent outlined how she'd struggled to find work after being made redundant during her maternity leave.
"Unfortunately I couldn't find a job related to my degree and bills were piling up, so I applied for anything I could find, and McDonald's came up. I got the job and am really enjoying it," she wrote.
The parent, who works evening and weekend shifts, added: "Of course it helps pay the bills and put food on the table! I'm starting my Master's in October and again the flexibility the job offers is good."
But her friend did not appear to be happy for her when she shared the news. "She seemed baffled and embarrassed for me," the mum recounted. She said that her pal questioned her choice and suggested an alternative would be 'better'.
Equally baffled, the mum wrote: "Is working at McDonald's really something to be embarrassed about?? A job is a job surely? And said friend eats at McDonald's so surely she realises someone has to prepare and serve her food."
She concluded by asking social media users if her friend was 'being horrible' or had a point, sharing that she 'left the conversation feeling quite deflated'.
Fortunately, commenters were quick to reassure the hardworking mum, meanwhile emphasising that her friend should not look down on her job or any other roles for that matter.
One person said: "My dad used to say 'to work is honourable,' regardless of the occupation. Well done to you." A second agreed: "There's a hell of a lot of snobbery related to jobs when there really shouldn't be." And another added: "Your friend is being ridiculous. You sound like you are doing the right thing. I would do the same in your position."
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