BlueDiamond-
I've been through a very similar situation at a workplace and I don't have epi or any other aliments. They were simply, "*ITCHES!". This one girl would pick someone every year at our workplace to harass. The others caved and kissed her butt the following year. We had a final face off! I stood up for myself! Standing up for myself didn't make things easier but damn I if didn't feel great! And she left me alone.

She had suckered these other 6 people in the office(formerly my so-called friends) to be her 'friend' by making up lies about me. They were 'weak' and bought into it. This went on for months.

I've had this happen my entire life. My spouse explains it best, "You're happy and smiling, and they are jealous that you can be so great every day while they are miserable." I do try to smile every day and be cheerful always. Even though I have a lot of issues of my own(that's why I'm here). But I WON'T give THEM the power to bring me down! They don't deserve it!

So, our new friend, Chin Up! Big Smile(they'll wonder what you're up to), and don't give up. Just because you don't have children or grandchildren doesn't mean you can't talk to them. By the way, I have neither too. I've just started a new job and I'm having to learn everyone's behavior, attitude, who hangs with who, etc. But the best compliment is when someone tells me, "You're always smiling!" I have no reason not to be.

Best of Luck**

Ocean