On Bending the Rules “But Sir, you always remind us of the strict implementation of the rules and regulations,” the young lady protested. “I didn’t let them in because they didn’t show me the document stipulated in the guidelines.” “Yes, but in every rule, there is always an exception,” my friend told his staff. “Just let them in. I know them, anyway.” When my friend left, the young lady gave us a long inquisitive look before she led us to the room. I explained to her that we ran out of time in furnishing the said document so we ended up asking help from her immediate head, who happened to be my friend. She told us about the institution’s firm adherence to its policies. “You are very lucky you know our head,” she remarked. I looked at her and told her that this scenario could happen anytime anywhere. “This kind of situation is rather inevitable. No matter how ideal we think we are, sometimes, we end up bending the rules,” I said beaming. “I don’t think so. You know, if I were the head, I would be very stern in carrying out the policies,” she said in an undaunted tone. I smiled at her. I was impressed with her boldness. Yes, she can be a quintessence of an effective leader. Or do I hope she’ll live by her principle and gradually inspire other people to follow in her footsteps. Indeed, idealism is usually resembled by the so-called fervent and vibrant young people. However, when they are exposed to the “real world” where rules and regulations are succinctly stated and believed to be sternly implemented, but easily twisted in just a snap, they end up disappointed, crooked, or challenged. If they were challenged, would they be firm enough to execute what are really stipulated in the guidelines? Wouldn’t they really be influenced by the professed “in authorities”? If they were disappointed, would they give up, learn the tactics of stooping the policies, and eventually enjoy the benefits of such abhorred act? Perhaps, so goes the line, “as pliant as the
