Have you ever heard of the saying,
“Life imitating art”
I’m pretty convinced that my life is one that should be made into a soap opera.
No Lie.
In August; however, I saw a tale unfold that could only be compared to this movie.
But how could this southern, conservative, Christian mama be involved in a mob type scenario, you might be asking.
It’s simple…and I’ll tell you all about it.
*Note: Though the names of the people may be changed…as not to humiliate those in the wrong; ALL the facts are true. Make no mistake about that!*
So let’s get this show started!
…………………………….
CAST OF CHARACTERS:
Big Papa – In his 40’s, a big man who has a passion for serving the Lord and stands up for what God’s Word says. With such a strong work ethic, he finds himself juggling the jobs of many people, but he performs them well. He is very trustworthy, honorable, and won’t stand for wickedness.
The Godfather – In his 50’s, a balding man, who carries a smurk on his face that at first glance seems welcoming and innocent, but there are always motives behind it. He runs his “business” by people pleasing (especially to his “amigos”), and shallow, shaky theology. He is good at sending out the orders and letting others do the dirty work. No blood on his hands.
The Mafia – Ages vary, containing both men and women. They execute the orders given out by the Godfather, and often on wrong notions. (As the Godfather will season his “verdicts” with lies to make sure the mafia will swallow it and carry out the sentence.)
The Amigos – they are a few elite families in the inner circle next to the Godfather. They help make the decisions and have a “don’t turn against me or I’ll stab you in the back quality”. Most everyone in the “business” know not to mess with these “amigos”.
Big Mama – In her 40’s, married to Big Papa.
Okay, now that the main characters have been established, let’s get this show on the road!
………………………………………….
As everyone was settling in for the evening one Sunday, Big Papa received a phone call. And in an emotionless voice a mafia member says,
“Big Papa, we need to have a meeting with you on Monday. When would work best?”
“Monday evening…Can I ask what this meeting is for?”
“I think it’s best we leave that for tomorrow.”
(CLICK)
– – Cut to Monday –
Even though Big Papa had a daughter in labor, he and Big Mama agreed that the severity of the mafia’s tone was reason enough to make the meeting. As Big Papa sat down in front of two mafia members, his uncertainty about the meeting was quickly cleared up.
“Big Papa since you have been out of work for two months now…”
Taken off guard by the directness of the mafia member, “Two months? It was only 5 weeks.”
“Oh well, while you have been out for two months your job has been delegated out to other people. So you no longer have a job here.”
“Wait. Can I ask where this came from?”
“Well, it’s because you have abandoned your job.”
“What do you mean I abandoned my job?”
Smugly stated by the mafia member, “You have been out for TWO months with no contact and we didn’t know IF you would come back. So you abandoned your job.”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about. Not only was I only gone for 5 weeks, but I communicated with the Godfather and he knew the exact dates I would be gone. As a matter of fact I was cleared to come back to work tomorrow. Who told you this?”
“The Godfather.”
Big Papa tried to plead his innocence for these false accusations. He even told them he had physical proof that the Godfather was well aware of his circumstances. But the mafia seemed less than willing to admit any miss-truths by the Godfather.
You just don’t mess with the Godfather.
Hurt by his unjust termination and the fact that no mafia member bothered to even ASK him if these things were true; he questioned why the Godfather wasn’t at the meeting.
“We didn’t feel he needed to be.” They said matter of fact.
Big Papa was shocked, not only had he not heard a peep from the Godfather about his “abandonment”, but they were saying the man accusing him of such things wasn’t needed there?!
The mafia knew to protect the Godfather. If they got dirty hands it was okay because it was all apart of the job. But the Godfather couldn’t have incriminating evidence against him. (For the good of the mob.)
“You have two options, Big Papa. You can choose to resign and sign a document stating that you are doing so because of health issues. If you resign, you will get a pathetic (maybe paraphrasing) severance package. Or you can be terminated, in which case your next pay check will be your last.”
“But I’m not resigning because of sickness, that’s a lie.”
His options were clear, lie and sign the “hush form” or be terminated. Something about the truth being swept under the rug didn’t set well with Big Papa. So he suggested another scenario..they offer him what he deserved in severance, write the truth on why he was actually fired, and he would sign that. Before he left the meeting, Big Papa offered to show the mafia members the proof he had to validate his innocence. But only if they wanted.
A few days later the mafia met for a meeting, and they discussed Big Papa’s termination. Scared to be faced with their form of the “truth” becoming a lie, the circumstances behind Big Papa’s termination was changed. Either way, Big Papa was out and the Godfather, the “amigos”, and the mafia were content.
Big Papa was crushed. He loved his job and believed that the Godfather, the “amigos”, and the mafia would follow God’s Word…but they didn’t.
*Note to the Audience: That’s why we put our faith in God alone, not man. Man will disappoint, God won’t.*
And boy DID man disappoint.
I bet even to this day you could ask each mafia member the reason for Big Papa’s termination and you would hear at LEAST 5 different answers. Sadly, that seems to be okay with them.
You see, in the mob, as long as you agree with the Godfather and his key “amigos” your life, job, and/or friendship is safe. But as soon as you challenge one of them, you better watch out for the mafia…because they’ll be coming for you next!
……………………………………………….
And just for kicks and giggles, here’s a lesson my children are learning through song right now. You may know it:
Oh be careful little heart who you trust,
Oh be careful little heart who you trust.
For the Father up above, is looking down with love.
Oh be careful little heart who you trust.
Very well said. 😉 I only wish others could know the real truth…oh well. Trusting that God will reward Big Papa for his faithfulness and judge those who have stood against him!
Miss you and your beautiful family, friend!!! 🙂
What terrible people….i hope the Godfather stays away from me.
That was impeccable my friend. 🙂 Oh the Godfather!!! And all his “followers” !! Big Papa will definitely be blessed. Love him!!! And all his wonderful family…
so sad! disappointing for “big papa”.