The fruit of that righteousness will be peace; its effect will be quietness and confidence forever. (Isaiah 32:17)
By Susan Cabrera
A controversial study had been dragging on for months in our county government office and the HR director wanted it resolved. The assistant director asked me, a senior analyst, to take it over.
The study included evaluation of management and professional positions in 12 cities. The outcome could affect salaries, benefits, and organizational structures, so it was a big-ticket item. As with all studies I had been assigned, I prayed to the Lord for guidance.
Given the stakes, I decided to start with a clean slate. I conducted interviews, and reviewed internal and external documents and data. Then I began my analysis and formulated recommendations.
The director wanted me to present the report to him directly since he had already spent months on the topic and wanted immediate answers about my findings and recommendations.
The day we met, he had carefully reviewed my report, and we dove right into it. Fortunately, I was able to answer all his questions; however, he was not in agreement with my recommendations related to compensation. I wanted to make a solid case for the affected employees, and there were times during our discussion that both of us raised our voices. At the end of our meeting, he was still not in agreement with my recommendations, which I accepted.
I returned to my office and after about 10 minutes, the director came in waving his finger at me. I thought, “What now?” As he continued to wave his finger, he said: “Don’t ever change. Don’t ever stop fighting for what you think is right. Don’t ever lose that. Don’t ever change.” And he walked out. Two days later, I learned he accepted all my recommendations.
With the Lord by my side throughout this controversial study, I was able to present my case with strength and a desire for justice. I felt no pride or trepidation, only the desire for a just outcome seeking that the fruit of the Holy Spirit would be evident.
Pray
Lord, give me the wisdom and strength to persevere in controversial or difficult situations at work, always looking to the Holy Spirit for guidance.
Reflect
How often do I personally invite the Lord into my work activities asking for his guidance and instruction?
Discuss
Did you ever have a contentious discussion at work that you looked back on with regret? What could you have done differently?
Susan Cabrera is a retired executive manager for county government. She is involved in the St. Vincent de Paul Society as a board member and as president of the chapter in Capitola, California. She can be reached at scpmc@aol.com.