"Life is indeed a journey of many phases. We humans travel through it and stop occasionally to experience the sweetness and bitterness that comes with each phase. The journey gets tiring at times and some humans thrive to keep going while others give up on the journey which is life."
Okay! But really, is Aaron okay? What's with the motivation quotes? No… the question should be, what is with Aaron?
"I'm happy with myself because I didn't give up on life. I'm where I am today, I achieved all I have and built all I dreamed of because of that determination to never stop traveling through the phases."
Aaron added. At this point, there was pin drop silence in the boardroom. I guess like me, they were also trying to figure Aaron out. We were all listening to him attentively. I also noticed a nerd-like guy scribbling a few lines in his notepad.
"I didn't do it alone either. I had you and you and you and so many other people with me to make it easier." Aaron went on pointing randomly to emphasize his words.
"I wasn't born as an heir to a successful rich family but fortunately for me, my parents were rich in strength and zeal although they weren't rich financially. So yes, I was born without a spoon."
What!…I didn't know Aaron was born to a middle class family…..like me. A struggling family where even if you manage to dream, you will have to let go of it. Now I see. I understood why he helped me, trained me and supported me. He shares the same story as mine. My eyes didn't avert from his face nor did my ears stop listening to him.
A strong emotion flicked in his eyes as they glitter with unshed tears. I felt it…probably we all felt it.
"It was hard. I pushed myself to study more but I didn't succeed in getting the scholarship I was aiming for. I had to start working to sponsor myself through school. Shoveling among my numerous part time jobs and school. I shouldn't bore you with my story. Everyone has experienced hardship one way or another…. Mine is nothing compared to most of us here."
Aaron concluded while I wiped the stray tears off my face.
"How did you start the business sir."
I heard myself ask. I wasn't planning to ask him though. The words flew out of my mouth before I could stop them. I was about to apologize but Aaron stopped me.
He narrated how he came up with a mind blowing innovation and while working on one of his regular duties, he met an investor and he sponsored him. And just like that, his journey to success began.
"Mr Aaron.." someone called. He was one of those who always supported Edwards opinions even when they were baseless.
"Yes, go on please." Aaron encouraged him.
"We are honored to know that we are important to you, enough to share your life story with us but what's the main purpose of this meeting? Most of us had to cancel our schedule to be here and we wouldn't feel pleased if we did that just to come here for your heartfelt stories sir. Pardon me if I sound rude, that wasn't my intention." He said smugly, exchanging looks with Edward and his fellow minions.
Don't tell me he was proud of himself for his obvious insults at Aaron…
"It's alright Mr Ben. I called for this meeting because I want y'all to know that I'm retiring…"
The moment Aaron dropped the bomb, everyone exploded. Everyone threw questions at him at the same time, demanding answers.
I was confused. Why? How? Why now? It's too sudden. I glanced in Carter's direction and I saw him smirking. Oh he knew? That must be the reason for his early arrival.
Carter looked pleased to hear about his father's retirement. I wondered why though… he should know that he can't run the company without his father.
I was mad that Carter was happy. I wished his smiled will be wiped off his stupid face.
And to my surprise, it was.