Several years ago, my sister taught 4th grade. On one occasion, I was helping her correct math homework papers - with a red pen and all. I felt so official. I was grading one student's homework had a lot of wrong answers, and I felt bad making all those red marks on his paper. I expressed my dismay to my sister, to which she responded (not necessarily a direct quote) "Don't feel bad. This kid never pays attention in class in spite of repeated warnings. He's getting the grade he deserves."
I've come to realize that I know who this kid grows up to be.
Some of the people I interact with at work. Not my direct colleagues - they're all great - but some people that I work with in a more indirect sense.
You see, my organization helps to distribute millions of dollars in federal funds to other organizations. Your tax dollars and mine; therefore, we have a pretty specific process for applying for those dollars. With clear instructions on what to turn in to us and by what time. You'd think if you were the director of an organization relying on the nearly $1 million you get from us through this process, you'd pay close attention to our instructions, right? And follow them? Or maybe call us and ask us to explain if you don't understand (especially after we make clear such calls are welcome)?
Yeah, not so much sometimes. Seriously? This isn't a 4th grade math quiz that's at stake. This is your job, the jobs of your staff, and the well-being of the people you serve. Please read - and FOLLOW - the stinkin' instructions!
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