The Missing Bonus

Jeff knew what today was — bonus day! Every quarter for the past three years, he’d received a bonus for the work he and his fellow team members put out.

Using his thumb as a letter opener, Jeff clumsily ripped, exposing the anticipated check inside. But when he scanned the figures, there was a surprise waiting. One Jeff neither anticipated or wanted.

Behind the crinkly plastic window, the page he pulled out had normal weekly numbers, but no bonus amount. Jeff blinked, and looked again. Hoping he’d overlooked something the first time. He needed this money. But sure enough, there was no bonus.

A light film of sweat started to cool his upper lip as Jeff focused on the date. Maybe he’d miscalculated the quarter. But after counting on his fingers, he was sure there was no mistake on his part. The company had messed up, and he didn’t get the bonus he counted on. How was he going to pay his car insurance?

Immediately furious, Jeff took off to confront the payroll department. Something was wrong with this picture. He’d earned that money.

Have you ever gotten a bonus at work? Have you received one on a consistent basis, but like Jeff, it stopped without notice? If so, what was your attitude when the anticipated money didn’t arrive?

Anita Freshfaith