Layer by Layer: What a Classic Dessert Taught Me about Work and Worth
My first job was working at Hilda’s Restaurant in Washington, DC.
Hilda was a close family friend, and since I was too young at the time to (legally) serve customers, my responsibilities were limited to sweeping floors, washing dishes, and helping chop fruits and vegetables.
It was easy work, a way to pass the time and save up for treasures like stackable bangle bracelets, fashion magazines, and New Wave pins from Commander Salamander clothing store on Wisconsin Avenue. (Fun fact: this iconic Georgetown landmark made a cameo in the “Wonder Woman 1984” movie.
As the summer progressed, my responsibilities grew. Soon, Hilda entrusted me with additional tasks, such as helping to prepare one of the restaurant’s signature desserts: the classic English Trifle.
Goodbye, dishrag. Hello, dessert royalty 👑!
In my mind, I’d hit the jackpot. Under the watchful eye of my supervisor, I sliced and layered each alcohol-dusted cake with the precision of a surgeon. I cored, chopped, and placed each berry with artistic flare, topping every trifle with my signature spiral. To me, contributing to this dessert was the ultimate honor, and I intended to prove myself worthy. Unlike my school art projects, these finished trifles looked masterful. Even better, at the end of the summer, I was allowed to keep one of the glass trifle bowls, which still rests in my kitchen cabinet to this day.
Sadly, after that summer, I never returned to Hilda’s as an employee, but the lessons I learned there have stayed with me for life. That year, I discovered that all jobs, no matter how small they seem, contribute to the collective whole. I learned that there is dignity and grace in simple tasks like sweeping, washing, and chopping. Most importantly, I learned that starting at the bottom, working hard, and being patient are essential to earning greater responsibilities. This commitment builds a strong work ethic, which can lead to success in any career. It also sparked my lifelong love of this classic dessert 🎂.
So, how does this relate to writing?
Great stories and great writing careers start at the bottom. We begin by learning the basics, building our “writer’s toolbox,” step by step, layer by layer. Once we master the fundamentals, we can branch out and experiment with different techniques. Whether it’s crafting a character’s backstory, outlining ideas, or mastering story structure, having solid foundations gives your work depth and staying power. Only then are you free to rise.
Though I didn’t return to Hilda’s the following year, I still cherish the lessons I learned. Since then, I’ve passed them on to my students, my clients, and my children, both of whom later worked in the restaurant industry when they were (legally) old enough to serve the public.
Remember, whether you’re crafting a dessert or a story, patience, dedication, and a solid foundation are the secrets to lasting success.
You can find my favorite English Trifle recipe inside my July newsletter!
