[Chopin99]

I decided to take a risk today; one that T has been telling me I need to do for a long time...start telling my story to someone where I will not know the consequences of doing so.

I am currently out of town for training with a coworker. This coworker was very very publicly critical of me in the former position I held at work. In fact, she is the one who took my place when I took my new position. We have gotten along better as of late, but admittedly, we both took quite a ribbing before leaving. People were telling us things like, "Don't kill each other," and "Don't put *coworker* out of the car." I was a little apprehensive.

So I decided on the way that I was going to tell her my story. What's the worst that could happen? It couldn't be much worse. So I told it. On the way, once we arrived at the hotel, at dinner.

Astoundingly, I seemed to have gained her respect. She said she had no idea about my background, the situations I put myself in, the utter abusiveness of ex-boss...she said if she knew everything I was going through at the time, she would have never judged me. She said to be so young, I had been through so much. She thought I was a weak person, but that now she knows I am actually very strong.

I know things could change. I still don't trust her. But I told it. I got it out there. And I'll deal with whatever consequences may come.

And if I can tell my coworker, I can tell my T. It would have to be safer. I'm kind of proud of myself!

Very brave of you. You should feel proud.

[critterlady]

Wow, Chopin, that's great! It's wonderful that you were able to open up and had such a good result.

[carly011]

Great job!!! So proud of you

[Crescent Moon]

Originally Posted by Chopin99

I'm kind of proud of myself!

I don't blame you! That's just a wonderful experience, Chopin. Thanks for sharing it.

[sittingatwatersedge]

wow, Chopin, you are brave! I hope that yr coworker becomes a good friend.

That was so brave. Another step towards healing. Your T is going to be so proud of you.

wonderful job♥♥♥

[Chopin99]

Things are still going well today. We are in our class and I had to introduce myself. I did fine. I used to have such a hard time even doing that! I cannot wait for T on Thursday. I have a feeling I'm going to be exhausted by then, though. I'm not as bad off as my coworker though. She has to drive back up here Friday for another training and go back the same day!

[tkdgirl]

Chopin that's excellent, very inspiring.

[bluemountains]

In sharing your story, I hope that your coworker has learned a life lesson about making judgments based on face value only. This is a lesson I try very hard to teach my own children and my class of fifth graders.
Bluemountains

You should be proud!! Good job!