MY ENCOUNTER WITH A DRIVER

In my previous Job as an Account and Administrator, I was privilege to supervised drivers, cleaners, and security guards. Managing them especially drivers and security was challenging, but my calm and friendly nature led me to prioritize their well being. I’d rather take blame than see anyone lose their job. Though we shared a family like working, I remained cautious with security staff; too much familiarity could make them compromise their duties.

Every month, I quietly set aside part of my salary and kept it in my office to support drivers and guards. Many security staff were chronically hungry, their company hired them without financial mobilization, leaving some without food for days. I became their lifeline; they’d request loans or outright help, promising repayment, but ever did. I never pressed them. Drivers, too, came to me for transport or meal funds. I treated them as family, though this weakened my administrative edge. Still, I refused to sacrifice my compassion.

Two weeks ago, I left home early for an appointment in Wuse 2. After a long day in town, I was exhausted and hungry. I’d planned to collect imported goods for my customers at Jumie store but instead I stopped at a restaurant. After ordering, I took a seat only to hear a booming voice "Oga Jonah!" 

It was a driver I’d worked with, he was behind me with group of family I learnt to be his new Boss. He enthusiastically telling his new boss and family about my kindness. "I’ve never met anyone like him!" he declared, drawing everyone’s attention to my table. He shared how I’d supported his family when he worked under me. I flushed with embarrassment, my food untouched as I smiled awkwardly.

As a man nearby left, he paused at my table and said to me "Well done. It’s rare to hear such praise from subordinates these days. Keep it up." After some minutes, the restaurant brought me a takeaway package a gift from the driver’s new employer, since I’d already paid for my meal at the counter. Grateful, I thanked them.

As I was about going, the manager approached me "We’d like to offer you one free meals here everyday for a month." People stood and applauded. Tears I hadn’t shed in years streamed down my face. Tears dropping shamelessly uncontrollably even after leaving the eatery, feeling lot of buried pain release 😭😭😭 

I’d only attended church twice for over five months now, despite how I have rooted myself on Christ foundation. Anger and hurt had distanced me from faith until that day reawakened me. 

Last Sunday, I wore my finest clothes, returned to church, and danced. In that moment, I stopped seeking answers and simply embraced God’s love.

Until the moment when will shall dance in white Greater Grace.

Oyugbo Osagie Jonah