My access card ....

My access card .... didn't work this morning.

For anyone who's seen the 2008 layoffs, this was standard operating procedure. Card doesn't work, security escorts you to your desk and then out.

I have a manager who has opened my eyes to the phrase ... about never judging a book by it's cover. Mild mannered, soft spoken, quiet - humiliates, intimidates, argues where reqd, self serving... needless to say, I froze at the turnstiles. My manager may have just made another unchecked and unquestioned decision.

While my mind wandered, The elderly security gentleman stood by me, knew what was going through my head - gently prodded me to swipe again and said " you got this". His words kept me from breaking down.

Whatever you may or may not do this holiday season -

1. If you can , sponsor
2. Mentor on skills
3. Done be a quiet bystander to mental harassment meted out
4. Build your own net - it's going to get tougher

I have a migraine today, but I will remember to take a Thank you card to the elderly gent at the turnstiles. He engaged me in feeble conversation... knowing it may well be my last day, but kept me from losing it all.