It is not new to hear that people are withdrawn or relieved of their duties. This often occurs when people fail to deliver or as soon as they start performing below the operational expectations of their employers.
One such sackings that recently captured the media space of global football is the sacking of Chelsea FC Manager, “Thomas Tuchel”. Why am I writing on his sack? Is Tuchel the first coach to be sacked? Am I one of the unfortunate Chelsea fans still sad or happy about the news of Tuchel sack? Well, I may a Chelsea fan but my concern here is different. There is an important lesson we all can draw from the sacking of Thomas Tuchel and I want to punctuate that lesson.
The man Thomas Tuchel who has just been sacked by the management of the team he was serving as manager, has the following records for Chelsea within the short period of his service to the club:
UEFA Champions League (1Trophy): 2020–21
UEFA Super Cup (1 Trophy): 2021
FIFA Club World Cup (Trophy): 2021
FA Cup runner-up: 2020–21
Indubitably, he has one of the best records, if not the best, as a manager of the “London Club” (Chelsea FC). However, these exploits were achieved in the previous two seasons before the present season. During those two seasons, Tuchel was a hero. The management and fans of Chelsea loved and celebrated him. What now? Of course, someone would say it is business! Perform or be kicked out! That is very sad but unfortunately the stark reality of how the world operates.
The world only identifies with success. You have many friends when you are on top of the mountain but once you are down from the mountain, if you are lucky enough to have few friends, be grateful! Those are your real friends.
This goes a long way to reminds me of one of James Hardley Chase books I read many years ago, You are Lonely When You are Dead. Yes, a failure or an unsuccessful person for the world is as good as dead. If you are not performing and being celebrated the world has practically no use for you.
But this is not the beginning and end of the story. Even when the world abandons us, there are still those who hang around to give consolations and to motivate us back on our feet or to console and relieve us of the pains of that go with death. These persons are GOD, OUR FAMILY AND VERY FEW FRIENDS.
One of the most important lessons everybody learn in this world is never to break ties completely with these groups of persons. Yes, while it is still within the locus of existential vicissitude to have issues with God, our families and trusted friends occasionally, the lesson is, do not take because of the euphoria of public acclamations break ties completely with these persons.
When I remember how many times, I have failed and how my family and few friends stood by me to assure me that my failure was not the end of the world. When I remember how the assurance that God would still take me back in spite of my failures, I marvel at His mercies. Whatever you do, do not expect reward from the world. Human beings will forget all your good works and capitalize on your shortcomings but never be disappointed! There are those who remember. He remembers!
