Once, at my old job, I got into an argument with the head of our accounting department. Lol, possibly a foolish move as she handled payroll. Plus, in true Nigerian-business style, she was the boss’s relative. Although a veritable toothache to all, the consensus dubbed her an Untouchable and as typical Nigerians we suffered and smiled. Until she shouted at me.

Now, I’m not ever looking for trouble on these rowdy streets so you can imagine my genuine confusion when a small matter escalated to grounds for a grand screaming fit. A public screaming fit.

Bruh.

The office had planned a knowledge-exchange session with the Lagos glitterati. There I was, busily prepping the tools required for the engagement, when this lady sent me to go to her car and bring her bag. (First of all, LOL) BUT, I asked that she let me finish what I was doing, which was time-bound and vital, especially as guests were already pouring into the hall. I stated I was almost done and would go on the errand right after.

Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, I was as surprised as you should be when this lady began shouting. At me, my friends. Loooooool. In the presence of guests.

One, what the hell?!

Two, I was gleeful within. Finally, the day of reckoning is upon us y’all. *Insert cartwheeling meme*

I said, “Please stop shouting at me”

So she screamed louder.

“People are looking at us and there’s really no need for this”

*Insert cackles, a screech and accompanying shrieks*

Me: *Now whispering urgently* Please let’s not do this here, there are people watching us.”

…Which only prompted her to give it her best.

So, I turned around and left.

Leaving a screaming accountant in my wake.

I had no regrets. Even when I got summoned to my department head’s office the next day to explain my alleged ‘disrespect’. Nigerian companies, fear avoid them. Lol. She beckoned me, told off, then ordered that I march downstairs to apologize to the lady who shouted at me.

Department Head: You think you’re better than everyone else.”

Wendy: No, YOU think I’m better. Not me. *Laughing*

Her: You should always  remember that you are at the bottom of the ladder!!

Wendy: *Laughing*

Lol y’all don’t let people impose a forced and unnecessary humility on you or indeed to cloak your light. Sparkle baby, blind them. Don’t allow yourself be bullied. You deserve to be here as much as anyone else.

Anyway, I was ready to lose my job that day. Happily.

However, when I went home and told my old, wise aunty, she listened carefully then asked me,

“So everyone knows that this woman is badly behaved?”

Me: *Emphatically* YES!

“She’s been mean and bad to those that have been there even longer than you?”

Me: *Emphatically* YES!

“And she shouts at people all the time…and no one else in the office responds?”

Me: *Emphatically* YES!

“So…why did it have to be YOU to teach her a lesson?”

Me:

Moral of the story, sometimes wisdom is in restraint. Every bad dog has its day.