The Golden Watch
He knew his number:
9 years -> 3 months -> 1 week -> 2 days.
…
With a Sisyphus-like countdown
He watched his watch
In a hypnotic passage of working days
He longed to retire and escape daze
filled with lethargy and loathing.
…
The day came
He got the parting golden watch, a good pension, and false freedom.
Imagine his dismay when nothing changed.
He made his number
But learned too late that
The 30-year golden watch had actually filled his days.
The countdown ended without liftoff.
Retirement was much like working.
…
We can’t go back in time.
We can only move forward
Into the time we have.
…
Our days our truly numbered
If we believe
We will live better in a future time or place.
…
Work/Life balance is not 30 years of working
Followed by 30 years of not.
Work/Life balance is to fully
Infuse work into our life and
Life into our work.
…
Do you know what time it is?
—–
Poem by David Zinger – David Zinger is a leading expert on employee engagement. He is committed to creating authentic and sustained employee engagement for the benefit of all. Contact David at (204) 254-2130 or Email dzinger@shaw.ca.
Photo: Old Gold Watch by http://www.flickr.com/photos/wheatfields/3487679351/
Hi David,
Love the poem! It’s so telling as to living in the now. And something about this poem really drives that point home – well said!
Thanks Lance.
I am glad something caught for you in the poem. It was based on a specific individual I knew years ago. I love the Jungle of Life I share some mutual admiration for your work.
David
Hello David- just discovered you on twitter. You have some interesting insights on employee engagement. I enjoy reading your posts. We are in the recognition business and we understand the value of an engaged employee. We believe recognition is key. Do you have articles/research that I can post on our blog or RT on twitter re: employee engagement as it relates to recognition or lack thereof? Always looking for new resources.
Thanks, Donna
Hi Donna,
I believe there are very strong links between appreciation, recognition, and engagement. I am working on some of this during the summer. I will email you a poem I did on this topic.
David