🔪 Survival Doesn’t Mean Submission

28 Jun, 2025

—By Someone Who’s Just Trying to Stack in Silence

There’s a difference between showing up and bowing down.

I took a shift like any other—quiet, focused, moving through the motions. Not slacking, not hiding, just pacing myself to finish the task with care. Mid-aisle, I throw a casual nod to the night supervisor. You know, that "Sup, boss?" tone—acknowledging the grind without bitterness.

He looks at me and says:

"I’ll give you a hint… Move faster."

Cool.

Not “Hey, we’re a little behind,” Not “Appreciate you—mind picking up the pace?” Just a “hint,” delivered like a riddle, laced with performance management vibes and barely veiled condescension.

And I’m still the one who said:

“Good night, sir.”

Not because I meant it. But because I know how to clock out with dignity.

🧠 Here’s the truth:

I’d like to keep the job. I’m not out here swinging at every ego trip. I’m just trying to work, get paid, and go home with my sanity intact.

But human decency still matters. Don’t talk to people like they’re beneath you just because you’ve got keys on your belt and a clipboard in your hand.

🩸 I remember people like that.

Not out of spite. But because I log everything.

And if I ever walk out that door early, it won’t be dramatic. No scene. Just one less body moving freight, one less voice saying “yes sir,” and one more aisle that won’t fix itself.

🗡️ Book of Boris — Verse Addendum:

I’ll survive. But I won’t flinch. I’ll respect the job. But I won’t worship the position. And if you swing disrespect my way again? Just know—I’m already holding the receipt.

Signed,

A tired worker Not your subordinate Just your solution… until I’m gone.