He's seated directly opposite me, separated only by the cubicle partitions. Recently due to some software upgrade issues and him being on the customer service side...I've been hearing him making loads of phone calls. Basically, he's on the receiving end of customer's unhappiness over issues caused by another colleague.
So over lunch, I got to hear outpourings from within him...the frustration and exasperation of cleaning up the mess of others, and being taken granted of, to put in the effort but receive no appreciation.
Sighh...my heart goes out to him. Well, not to say that I comprehend fully all that he faces...but it's an acknowledgement to the sad fact of the society, and the working world. Office politics, colleagues who seek only to protect their turf, back-stabbing if need be, bosses who wants only results but not recognising your efforts....it can all add up to a sad weary life.
Can one survive in such an environment, and not be influenced?
I believe it's possible, by His grace and covering. But it's definitely not easy...and the moment we let our guards down, we can unconciously allow ourselves to be drawn to the struggles of the "dog-eat-dog" world.
My colleague however, sent an email at the end of the day...apologising for the outpourings of his frustrations...saying sorry if any of us were stumbled by his words and actions over lunch. That's a good witness of him I'd say...I was encouraged by his openess.
It caused me to be thankful once again, for His covering over me at this moment, in the form of concerned and kind colleagues. I don't know, it could be due to my age, or that I'm still only a contract staff. But it does allow me the chance to be prepared for the realities of the working world I'd face.
It does give another meaning and perspective to the advises I've heard from people about having a few years of working experience before going full time.
Sighh...but even so, I still have no clear decision on my next step. On the path of pursuing designing academically and future career, dreams and passion aside, there's the realistic issues to consider.
It took Moses 80 years before he finally found himself at the place of being ready, prepared and moulded by God to fulfill his life calling to deliver God's people.
I wonder what's in store for mine.
