Over the past few years, I have encountered individuals who consciously or unconsciously have worked to undermine the culture I have worked hard to build in my workplace.  These actions have taken many forms.  From overt actions like slandering my name publicly and yelling at colleagues.  Covert actions included whispering in staff lounge to deter colleagues from going above and beyond in their efforts, to some individuals encouraging the spread of negativity and the spirit of idleness.

I resented the above-mentioned undermining individuals and began to treat them differently than others.  I was curter, less lenient and less forgiving of their actions.  How dare they come and ask me for anything when I knew they were spreading gossip and pessimism? Why should I say “good morning” or smile?  I was bitter and angry on a daily basis.  

A friend of mine asked me to read Luke 6:35 which states that we must, “love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.”

I have not perfected the directives of Luke 6:35, and I still take things personally but I have learned to, “Let Go and Let God.”  I am learning to be forgiving and recognize that I must carry myself like a child of God.

I have also learned that I should model positivity and love even if it is not reciprocated.  Since this realization, many of the negative staff members have left and gone elsewhere.  Most of the staffers who remain are committed to the vision and encourage one another to take initiative.  I go home with a lighter heart and a positive spirit knowing that I have not stooped to anyone’s level and that there is a reward waiting for me with the Most High King.