Mere Words

It was a somber moment. All stood silent as they waited for him to speak. He was leaving the organization for better prospects.  We gave him a going away gift and waited to hear the regular “such a pleasure to work here”

“sad to leave here” etc etc etc

He began like that and then pauses and mentions, “Now I have a very important announcement to make…” We became attentive. “All those who owe me money please return it by today evening.”

That was enough to dispel the seriousness and the atmosphere relaxed once more as we cracked up. Funny na how mere words can lighten up the atmosphere. Never underestimate the power of words.