The Friday 4.30pm Call

The thought of this upcoming call was eating my mind up at times.

Some moments I’d find myself consumed by it, and other moments I was totally fine.

And by totally fine, I mean that I am instead consumed by other problems. And this one ranks a little lower on the list.

This was a call with the bosses boss. A introduction call to the department, even though I have been here for over 1 year.

And the time of this call? 4:30 p.m. on a Friday!

Who on earth puts in a work call for 4.30pm on a Friday. It’s Friday! I’m ready to switch off.

My mind was spinning as I’m approaching the call.

I pictured this person being able to see through me and deciding that I was not good enough in the role I was in.

She finally appeared, smiling on the video call screen.

“How do I pronounce your name?” she asked. I appreciate it when white people ask me that. Maybe this call wouldn’t be so bad.

But then she jumped straight into her polished career pitch: a hollow tale of “accidentally” becoming a director. Her laugh was empty. I mirrored it.

Forcing a friendliness that drained me.

Then she asked about me. My mind blanked. I stammered through my achievements, I’m, sure she could see my cracks. The silence stretched.

The call ended. I slumped back, exhaling a groan. Thank goodness that’s over.