I terminated a single mom for being tardy—subsequently uncovering the reason and pleading for forgiveness.
I’ve served as a manager for nearly six years, always believing I was equitable. Perhaps strict, yet fair. Rules are rules, and if I make exceptions for one individual, where does one draw the line? That’s what I repeatedly told myself when I dismissed Celia last week.
She was late once more—it was her third such instance this month. Our policy is crystal clear: three latenesses, and you’re out. When I summoned her to my office, she scarcely uttered a word.
She simply nodded, snatched her bag, and departed without putting up an argument. That should have been the initial indication that something was amiss.
Later that afternoon, I overheard two colleagues whispering. One inquired, “Did you hear about Celia’s son?” The other sighed and replied, “Poor child. She’s been sleeping in her car with him.”
My stomach dropped.
I pulled one of them aside and asked, “What do you mean’sleeping in her car’?”
It transpired that Celia had been evicted a month prior. Her ex had left, there was no child support, and no family nearby. She had been taking on double shifts whenever possible, but most shelters were full, so she and her six – year – old had been residing in her car. She was late on those mornings because she had to drive across town to a church where they could take a shower before dropping him off at school.
I felt truly awful.
I returned home that night and couldn’t stop ruminating on it. She wasn’t late because she was irresponsible. She was late because she was striving to make a living. And I had just exacerbated her situation.
The following morning, I phoned her, but she didn’t answer. I sent her a text, yet received no response.
So I located the last address we had on file and drove there. It was a dilapidated apartment complex, but the manager informed me she had been evicted weeks ago.
Now I’m sitting in my car, scouring the internet for any means to get in touch with her. I’m not even certain if she still has her phone.
I have a job available for her if she desires it. More than that, I wish to extend a helping hand.
But what if it’s already too late?
