Loose Lips Sink Ships

I'm borrowing this phrase from my chief strategist-cum-adviser. Browsed the web for more details and this is what i got:-

"Loose Lips Sink Ships is an idiom that came from a poster “Loose Lips Might Sink Ships,” an Allied slogan during World War II meaning unguarded talk may give useful information to the enemy; another way to describe it is a reminder that classified information was never to be discussed with anyone without proper clearance and a need to know...Essentially it means you must keep this secret or there will be a price paid. Such as disclosing a military secret to the enemy could result in large loses, such as the sinking of an entire ship."

Interestingly enough, the news of my resignation has even reached ex-colleagues - some whom I hardly keep in contact with. I was online a few days ago when Ade (one of those who've left in search of greener pastures) asked if I'd tendered. Not many people are aware of this blog-of-sorts that I keep, and I haven't really broadcasted the news either. Naturally I was quite taken aback when she mentioned that she'd heard if from another ex-staff who's in a different company.

Isn't it amazing how well-oiled the grapevine machinery is?

Apparently the word's out on the street, though some people have viewed this skeptically and are quite astonished that I've made this uncharacteristic (to them) move. My ol' captain is not surprised though. He congratulated me heartily and supported my decision, and even commented that although it would be difficult to let go initially, I would eventually overcome my emotional entanglement to this job and move on.

All the same, I find it rather alarming that information could be disseminated at such a vicious speed, technological advancement in communication channels notwithstanding. I had initially wanted to keep this under wraps, and was quite successful in doing so...until a particular character (to whom the "loose lips" phrase aptly applies to) boldly cornered me at close range and fired a point-blank question: why did you resign?

I was furious. There was only one possible leakage who would have access to such confidential information and I REALLY had no intention of disclosing any details about my impending departure to my colleagues until I had confirmed my last day of work with the King. Regrettably, a loose canon had exploded and that's when I decided to come clean with those whom I work closest with: my fellow lecturers. I'd rather they hear it straight from the horse's mouth than getting twisted facts from the rumour mill.

No matter. What's done cannot be undone, which was why I posted the poem and wrote my previous entry only after I've informed them of my resignation. There really isn't any use in keeping quiet about it or denying the truth. I'm leaving the organisation and by the end of next month, I'd be out. For good.

*Sigh*

There's no vine more powerful than the grapevine.