I was in the office getting ready to leave for Ottawa.
I had an appointment to meet with the people in the Customs department.
My client had had his product made from turtles.
"Sorry, but turtles are an endangered species."
I was going to Ottawa armed with proof that our product had been made from "cultivated" turtles.
As i was leaving, my wonderful secretary called out.
"Don't forget to bring the "turtles!"
For a moment I was stunned. "Francoise, What are you saying! Turtles are banned!"
And then it hit me.
"What a brilliant idea!"
I met with the Ottawa people in a board room.
We all sat down. The Ottawa people ready with pencil in hand.
And then I shattered them.
"I have brought the requisite bribery!"
The government people's faces all froze.
I now had their total attention
With a great flourish, and with a big smile,
I brought out the bribery:
A BOX OF CHOCOLATE TURTLES!!!!!!!!
After the initial shock, they all enjoyed the bribery!
Everybody was relaxed.
They listened carefully to my presentation.
Took it under advisement.
And the facts won out. The ban was withdrawn.
The lesson of the story?
(And it's NOT bribery!)
Do you have a problem with government?
Arrange for a meeting!
Most people don't realize that government people are there to help, not hinder.
And if the facts are on your side, they will help!
......With or without turtles!
"Fan
