A Test of Character
Hi, what’s so urgent?When you message me, you seemed really upset.
Yes, i was. I was confused and I still am. I need your advice. You’ve known me for a long time.
You are my best friend. So what is it?
I’ve been offered another job.
Oh? That’s usually a nice thing. So what’s the problem?
The problem is that they are our strongest competitor.
Oh, you mean Beta Crop.
Right, there may be a great offer,more than double my present salary.
Ah, I see. So the dilemma you’re facing is whether to take it or not.
Yes, that’s it exactly. It will be a betrayal of everyone I’ve been working with for more than 10 years. It makes me sick to even think about it. But I’m really tempted. It’s a lot of money.
Look, I’ve known you since our student days. If you took that job, you would be betraying yourself.
Yes, I know that. I wish they hadn’t made me such an offer.
So why are you asking for my advice? If I were to say it’s okay to take the job, would that give you an excuse to take it? You are the one who has to live with yourself.
Honestly, what would you do?
If I were in your situation, I'd probably feel the same way. And to be honest, I hope I would be able to stay true to myself. I suppose if my family were really poor and in trouble, I’d be tempted. But even then, to betray my friends and colleagues, who would I be. It’s a real test of character.
Yes, those are my thoughts. And I’m not sure what my wife will think.
Look, I know your wife. I think she will be proud of you if you do the right thing.
Yes, she probably will. And in the end, I’m not sure I could ever trust Beta Crop. They are a branch of cutthroats. They have no integrity.
So I think the answer is clear. And one more thing, I hope you do the right thing, even for me. We need people to stand up and do the right thing. If you were to betray yourself, it would discourage everyone who knows you. You have a lot of influence and people look up to you. I don’t want to lose faith in humanity.
Thanks. That’s what I thought you would say.
I'd be disappointed if you thought I'd say anything different.
I'll do the right thing whatever the consequences. I know there will be people who will think I'm being a fool for turning it down.
Yes, but there are the ones who matter.
Cheers! To you and saving the world. Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha...
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