A service to the world's business community November 10, 2003

(See the reference to the Pendergasts as whistle Blowers in the article Holy Terror in the Western Standard Dec 2005 " Responding as the Pendergasts did--by standing up to the abuse and forcing it into the open--is the most effective way of ending it, Beed says. "Whistle-blowers," like the Pendergasts, are part of the "new culture of awareness," exposing abuse in all facets of society." Comment by Cara Beed - author on spiritual abuse issues)

 
WHISTLE BLOWING CAN BE LONELY

By: Rick Boxx

Susan was frustrated and hurt. Her job in a large corporation was to monitor telephone activity of employees to assure they were in compliance with company policy and with the law. When Susan discovered a high performing employee was illegally meeting her goals and bonus objectives she took it to management. Instead of being thanked for her efforts she was rebuked. "Stay out of this." She was told. "This is none of your business."
Knowing that many innocent customers were getting hurt in the process Susan decided to persevere. Certain she was doing the right thing, she took her complaint to the CEO. Soon things got even nastier. Her office was broken into and her documentation stolen. After months of harassment, poor reviews, and threats she was banished to a small department with orders to quit complaining.

 Proverbs 28:16 says, "A leader who is a great oppressor lacks understanding, but he who hates unjust gain will prolong his days."

 Walking with integrity does not always result in immediate gratification. Whistle blowing, especially in a corrupt environment can be lonely business, but doing the right thing is still right. In many businesses doing the right thing may cost you; sometimes even your job, but continuing to look the other way and working in an environment where corruption, rather than justice rules, is not much of a life, nor much of a business.

 If you are faced with keeping quiet, and living a miserable existence, or blowing the whistle and potentially losing your job, stand tall and take the high road. God can prolong your days.                               

 

Reflection/Discussion Questions

 1. Was Susan correct in reporting the illegal activity to management? Was she correct in taking the issue to the CEO? Why?

2. What would you have done in her situation? Why?

3. Read Proverbs 28:16. Discuss the contrasts between the two types of leaders.

4. What are the potential problems in "doing the right thing"?

5. What are the benefits of "doing the right thing"?

6. To whom are you ultimately responsible?