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Second Thoughts
"So if we change the pipe gauge it should rupture within three months causing massive damage to the pumping station. That sound okay to you?" John pointed to a spot on the blueprints spread out on the table between him and Mark.
"Sure," Mark answered in a distracted tone of voice.
"The fireball should be visible from thirty kilometers away," John finished, positive now Mark wasn't paying any attention to the plans or what he was saying.
"What? Fireball? What do you mean?"
John shook his head. "C'mon, let's go get a cup of coffee. You're in no shape to work on this right now." The two men picked up their cups and headed for the coffee pot before going into John's office.
"Okay, sit down and tell me what's on your mind. You just approved an engineering change that would have blown up a million dollars worth of pumps. Want to tell me about it?" John leaned back in his chair and took a sip from his mug.
"It's about Cathy. I lost my temper last night." Mark went on to tell John the circumstances and what he'd done. "Thing is, I overreacted. I came down on her too hard. Now what do I do?"
John put his mug on the desk. "First, it doesn't sound like you lost it. She did something wrong; you corrected her. That's what you are supposed to do.
"Second, you didn't overreact. The punishment fits the crime. If you aren't willing to do what's necessary she'll lose her faith in you. What was her reaction this morning? When you left was she an emotional wreck, couldn't stop crying?"
Mark frowned. "No, nothing like that. There were a few tears last night but she seemed to accept the consequences. That's not the point though. It was enough that I take away her book and all the rest for today. Taking away her clothes was too much."
"You may think so Mark, but I'd bet she wouldn't agree with you. In the same situation I'd impose at least as much of a penalty as you did, probably a lot more. It was no small matter. Not just that she disobeyed, but you wanted to share some quality time and she selfishly ignored you." John shook his head. "See, you have first claim on her time. That's the point. She expects it, and she knows better than to say no. Considering the circumstances you were lenient."
"Still…' Mark hesitated.
"No still about it," John interrupted. "Your job is to be her master, better or worse. Last night wasn't one of the better moments but there's no excuse if you fail in your responsibilities. You signed a contract, you promised her you would keep your end of the bargain. Do it. Don't mope around and let those doubts eat away at your confidence." John jabbed his finger at Mark. "Get it together, man. She expects discipline and structure in her life. Those have to come from you. You made the call, live with it.
"Now let's go back and see if we can come up with a layout for that pumping station. Preferably one that won't incinerate the neighborhood."
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