How many of us can genuinely say that we are well-liked at work?

My concept of being really liked at work changed last Friday.

It was just another day as I walked in after a doctor’s appointment. But things looked different as I strolled through the hallway…my team gave me a “green carpet” welcome! A “green carpet” greeted me, a six-pack Heineken sat next to me; green balloons filled my office, green skittles and life-saver mints fought for space on my desk. A few green files reminded me of work and a green battle fist game  said play is important.

My very creative team added a Monster energy drink and green Kleenex tissues, in case I got really excited or cried.

They celebrated and cheered me for the end to my eight year ordeal. Like thousands of Indians waiting for their green cards, I dealt  with a slower than a snail bureaucracy, a government that constantly double dipped on work and entry permits,and  lawyers eager to charge fees if you were in the vicinity of their zip codes. Not to talk of dreaded “visa bulletins,” those monthly morgues on cyberspace.

We are living in times when employee loyalty has plummetted. Bosses fiddle with bean counters under their desks and in case you get stressed, squeeze balls are there for you.

 I am just plain lucky. I felt honored, humbled and above all really well-liked at work. Our team was more excited than me getting a green card!

My boss went out of the way, summoned the photographer from the marketing department and asked that she capture “the moment.” And, a colleague remarked that I had an authentic smile on my face.

I am part of a team that has very less in common with me in upbringing, heritage, or tastes. But last Friday reminded me that there is hope in America. For all my friends waiting for a “green card,” do not despair. It is worth it.

Disclaimer: I  no longer go to work every morning. I share my talents and passion serving our constituents every day.