He thinks
he cultivated a company culture
that motivated me
and brought out my best.

In reality,
I thought he was the father
I never had.

I was motivated
not to work hard,
but to get his love
instead of my father’s.

Why?
Because it was easier.

After all,
all it required
was to work hard.

Working hard
was not enough
for my father.

I’m glad
the culture didn’t block me
from seeking his love,
but it wasn’t the culture
that motivated me
or brought out my best.