Promises, Contracts, Oaths

I work in sales. I have been doing it for over 6 1/2 years now and it can be frustrating for a lot of reasons. I have learned over the years that even if someone signs a contract and agrees to fulfill the commitments outlined in the contract it really does not mean very much to them. I have people take contracts and tell me they are going to return them at least one or two times a month. These are big contracts worth thousands of dollars over the lifetime of the deal. I do my best to follow up with the clients and try to get them to sign the contract and return it. Most tell me that they are going to send them back in. Some actually do but most do not. Even after they turn in a signed contract it still means nothing until they pay.

I am not sure if it is because I was raised different or my values but I believe that if you sign a document you should do all you can to fulfill that agreement. This concept has really bothered me the last several years and especially this year as I have 4 contracts that are still out standing the season has begun and the people still tell me they are going to sign and pay.

I compare and contrast my work life with my church life a lot and this scenario reminded me of the story in 1 Nephi when Nephi kills Laban, puts on his armour, retrieves the plates and then walks out with Zoram. It amazes me that all that took place between Nephi and Zoram was a verbal agreement (oath). Nephi says Zoram will be free if he comes and stays with Nephi and his family. Zoram agrees and it goes on to say that all their fears were gone.

I wish people's words meant more than the do and for that matter, I wish a signed contract meant something.