How I was Tested by the Chief Financial Officer at work

 by Michael O' Adetu

Let me share something interesting with you. Hopefully you will find this useful. In 2015, i just got back from a two weeks trip and i was totally exhausted. The trip was both physically and mentally challenging but i totally loved it because i was learning something new. The following week, i got to work as usual and i barely settled down before the CFO (he can see this but i will not tag him 😁) called me into his office and told me I will be embarking on an urgent trip for the company in 2hours. I stepped out to get myself ready and my ticket was booked. He then called me into his office to give me some money as bank transfer was delaying. As the culture demands, I counted the money in his presence and realized that the amount given to me was more by 1,000naira. I counted again to be sure and immediately returned the 1,000naira(less than £3 or $5) back to him. He looked at me and smile. I was confused; he then said 'I am aware the amount is more, it's just a test and also to confirm if what people are saying about your integrity is true'. I was astonished. I replied thank you Sir then i left for the airport immediately. 

On my way to the airport, I called my friend Hamadi Sekou Drammeh and he was like 'men it's good to be trustworthy'. I also called my pastor Iheanyi Ejiogu and told him what just happened. He responded 'well done- this is how to live as a Christian'. Now the 1,000naira is small but it is in those small things that your true integrity can be put to test. I know you might want to think 'but that is the natural thing to do- do not take whatever is not yours'. You will hardly come across such value in the society where I grew up, it must have be impacted deliberately. It is in those things or moment we consider insignificant that our character is often put to test. I have seen people's lost their jobs and career totally crumbled due to lack of financial indiscipline.

In my private moments the week after the incident, I realized that I picked up such value from my Mum and reinforced by the teachings in the church i was attending. Parenting and social institutions are crucial part of building the right values. This experience made me respect my Mum even more.

NB: In whatsoever you do, let people know you first for your integrity. Do have a wonderful day 😁🏃‍♂️.
.....end of story.