Monday, June 6, 2011

Stretch and Cut

First day back at work. I know I was missed. Everyone told me so. That's a great feeling and it made the commute on the slightly rain-slicked highway a little easier.

I was feeling pretty good about myself. I was knocking my notes out, keeping up with the day and standing pretty tall. After being off for a week, I felt like things were going better than I'd expected them to be. No major malfunctions. You know what happens next. Something always happens next.

I entered a room. Chitchat ensued and morphed into political discussion.

Uh oh. I hate that.

The room tilted to the right and I felt my stomach flip as it tried to reconcile the gravity of the conversation. I looked at the chart. I looked out the window. I attempted to look as apolitical as possible.

I heard the words.

"She's a real Obama fan, a regular supporter."

Why does it have to be this way? I felt my credibility fly out the very window through which I'd been gazing. It flew out on the wings of a creature that hovers above me and occasionally divebombs, taking me by surprise.

I smiled. Sometimes it's better to say nothing. One doesn't have to deny or confirm. In fact I think I said more with my silence than I could have said with words.

Since it's now 6:26pm and I'm off the clock, for the record: Yes, I am.


©Michelle Scofield, June 6, 2011 All Rights Reserved

1 comment:

  1. I have a hard time keeping my mouth shut at work when the members turn the conversation political and blame Obama for their financial problems. Good for you for knowing that sometimes it's best not to say anything. Hope you had a great time in Vegas!

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