Loyalty: unwavering support with limitations

Loyalty means a lot of things to different people in the world. Some can even go as far as killing a fellow human being just to prove their loyalty to a cause or a person.

As for me, loyalty means unwavering support to a cause or a person, but it comes with limitations, even though it includes the word unwavering. I’m someone who values truth and honesty to the fullest, and anytime I detect foul play in a cause I’m loyal to, I pull out completely and instantly. That’s what I mean by unwavering support, but with limitations.

Currently, in my stage of life, I’m loyal to a lot of people — many of whom I look up to, especially elderly ones. I accord them the respect that comes with loyalty, and as it stands now, I can go to any length to do what is right to keep my loyalty to them intact.

I remember a certain time I worked with a boss in an office. I was found to be totally submissive to him because he was genuinely good. He wasn’t the type to take advantage of people; he knew when someone was exhausted and avoided overworking them. Because of these qualities, I decided to be there for him anytime, even at odd hours. There were times he would call me late at night for an assignment, and I would willingly comply without any grudge. Throughout my stay with that boss, I never had a reason to reduce my loyalty because of how understanding and considerate he was.

On the other hand, I once worked with a boss who was solely focused on personal gain. He would overwork the staff to ensure things were done to his exact taste, showing no consideration for their well-being. In this role, the job demanded that I must be loyal and submissive to him no matter what. But did it happen? No. I initially tried to play along, but over time, I couldn’t endure it anymore. I began to step back. I adopted the pattern of blocking his number after work hours, and when he messaged me on WhatsApp, I would ignore him and later give excuses when I resumed work the next day.

There was also another boss I served. He was good at the initial stage, but after about a year of working with him, I began to notice some foul play, especially regarding how he was deducting money from the company’s account. I wasn’t entirely against it, as he was the head of affairs in the company, but my spirit, body, and soul felt a detachment. I gradually found myself reducing my loyalty to him. Yes, he noticed my attitude, but he never questioned me nor did he change.

Thanks for reading!

This is my entry to #thoughtfulthursday prompt 21

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