The Night Before...

T

was the night before Christmas and all through the plant
Not a technician was stirring, no quality rants.

Performance charts were pinned to the cork board with care,
In hopes that, their progress, people would share.

The micrometers were nestled, all snug and encased
Protected from damage or being misplaced.

The QA manager at his desk, and I at my bench
Were tidying up files after calibrating a wrench.

When out on the floor there arose such a clatter
We ran from our lab to see what was the matter.

Away to production I flew like a flash,
Actually, tripped, bringing down a parts’ tray with a crash.

There at the CNC stood a man all in red,
With belt and boots and a cap on his head.

He reached in his sack and brought out stuff so dandy,
Which he placed at each station, yummy bags full of candy.

Next he went to the office and there did the same
Putting goodies on desks next to each person’s name.

He went to the board and looked at our charts
And nodded as if enjoying Renaissance art.

Finally, we watched him head into our lab,
Where he (gasp) plunked his sack onto our granite slab.

Into his sack he reached one more time,
And brought forth a bell with a beautiful chime.

Spotting us spying, he turned with a smile
And said, “Quality folks, I do like your style.

"In this plant, everyone has truly done great,
And they deserve the chance to really celebrate,

"But you, here in quality, keep it all together
With your ISO stuff in both fair and foul weather.

"So, this bell I give. Let it ring for all here,
But, into your reliable hands, I entrust its care.

"Continue to champion your quality system
Helping people to see the potential within them."

Then he nodded, winked, and went out to his sleigh
And, called to his reindeer to soar away.

And I heard him exclaim (it was really quite clear),
“Merry Christmas to all and a Happy New Year.”

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