You and I are They
My mother had a fond acquaintance with “they.” She often referenced they in conversation. They always seemed to know the best restaurant. They said who was going to win an election. They knew the right kind of car to buy, where to shop for clothes, and would even tell you the best places to vacation. I was fascinated with they even though I’m not sure if I ever met them. Years later I was introduced. As the Human Resources Director for a large organization, in spite of the size of the agency, it was rare to realize moments of anonymity. One day while riding in an elevator, a fellow passenger with whom I was not acquainted joined me. During our 40 second ride I witnessed his agitation: he ranted and raved about a personnel policy that he felt was unjust, not right, and unfair. As he exited, he closed with, “I can’t believe they are doing this to me!” Guess who had ownership of that policy. I couldn’t help myself and walked off the elevator with the