The Integrity of Gongloe & Associates: A Story of Returned Money and a Phone
The story of two staffers at Gongloe & Associates law firm in Monrovia, Liberia, stands as a testament to unwavering honesty and integrity. In separate incidents, Ms. Roseline M. Gaye, the receptionist and caretaker, and Mr. Henry Johnson, the chief driver, demonstrated exceptional character by returning valuable lost items to their rightful owners. Their actions not only reflect their personal values but also uphold the reputation of the firm, led by renowned human rights advocate Cllr. Tiawan Saye Gongloe.
Ms. Gaye’s story began on a seemingly ordinary Wednesday afternoon. After finishing her workday, she stumbled upon a black plastic bag containing a substantial sum of money – US$26,000 – while searching for office supplies. Overwhelmed by the discovery, she immediately informed a colleague. Unsure of the owner, she decided to safeguard the money until the rightful owner emerged. Later, upon the arrival of her office manager, she promptly handed over the found cash. As fate would have it, the distressed owner soon appeared, and the money was returned intact.
Ms. Gaye’s narrative reveals a remarkable sense of responsibility. Despite the temptation presented by such a large sum of money, she prioritized honesty over personal gain. Her actions underscore the importance of integrity, regardless of circumstance. She believes that what is not rightfully earned should not be kept, emphasizing that fate often has greater things in store. Her story serves as an inspiring example of how personal integrity can make a significant difference.
Mr. Johnson’s account further reinforces the culture of honesty within Gongloe & Associates. His story involves a lost phone, demonstrating that integrity is not limited to large sums of money. Prior to Christmas, while traveling in a taxi, Mr. Johnson noticed a passenger’s phone had fallen between the seats after they exited the vehicle. Despite the taxi driver’s insistence that Mr. Johnson hand over the phone, he refused, sensing the driver’s intentions might not be honorable.
Mr. Johnson proposed a visit to the police station to create a written record of the found phone, a suggestion that deterred the driver. Subsequently, the owner’s wife contacted Mr. Johnson through the phone, and he arranged to return the device the next day. Upon returning the phone, the grateful owner offered Mr. Johnson US$10, which he accepted. Mr. Johnson proudly identified himself as an employee of Cllr. Gongloe, highlighting his association with a figure known for his impeccable public record of integrity and honesty.
Both Ms. Gaye’s and Mr. Johnson’s actions exemplify the core values of honesty and integrity. Their decisions to return the money and phone, respectively, speak volumes about their character and reflect positively on the ethical environment fostered within Gongloe & Associates. Their stories serve as powerful reminders that doing the right thing, regardless of the potential personal gain or pressure, is always the best course of action. Their honesty not only benefited the rightful owners but also reinforced the reputation of their workplace and set a commendable example for others to follow.
These two incidents demonstrate that integrity is not a selective trait; it is a principle that guides actions across varying situations, from handling significant sums of money to safeguarding a simple mobile phone. The consistency displayed by both Ms. Gaye and Mr. Johnson solidifies their commitment to ethical conduct, irrespective of the stakes involved. Their stories resonate deeply, emphasizing that honesty and integrity are not merely words but actions that define character.
In a world often marred by dishonesty and greed, the actions of Ms. Gaye and Mr. Johnson shine as beacons of hope. They serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of ethical behavior and the positive impact it can have on individuals and society. Their stories inspire us all to strive for higher moral standards and to choose integrity over personal gain. The legacy of their actions extends beyond the returned money and phone; it speaks to the enduring power of honesty and the positive ripple effect it creates.
