Both the OP's issues that he says shouldn't have set him off... would set me off. Disrespectful that she didn't notify and ask (because that is your time) before assuming she could do something. What if the tables were reversed? Would she be so understanding?

On the work issue, I'd have responded with cc'd email chains to the boss demonstrating your part of working with said liar.

Maybe you're unreasonable about other things, but those two don't strike me as things to take it easy about.

ZSMICHAEL, I honestly had no idea there were differences in treatment there. I may have to look into it. I would like to be less affected by previous experiences, so if I can learn ways to deal with what I’ve been shoving into a closet deep inside for nearly 50 years I think it would help.

^^^^^^
There should be a fair number of Psychologists in Baltimore. Anyone can call themselves a therapist or counselor. Psychologists are licensed by the state just like physicians. You cannot call yourself a psychologist without years of training and a license to practice from the state. Just like physicians. I do not know any personally in the Baltimore area or I would give you a name.

buddy357, this has been an interesting thread.
I'm sitting here wondering: is there one of us who is not on a short fuse these days?
Do we not all carry a baseline load of anger and frustration at what is going on politically, socially, culturally, economically in this country?
Is not the level of uncertainty about our individual and collective futures greater than at any time in our lives?
Now add to that: we are gun nuts in a time when we are being driven underground, and the media are trying to shame us into giving up our freedom. The mechanisms available to coerce us--red flag laws, breaches of privacy, social media--are stronger than ever before.
How can we not be angry? Yet we must bite our tongues and keep silent, or else.
I think only our grandchildren with their innocence and sweetness keep me sane.

quote:

Originally posted by sjtill:
buddy357, this has been an interesting thread.
I'm sitting here wondering: is there one of us who is not on a short fuse these days?
Do we not all carry a baseline load of anger and frustration at what is going on politically, socially, culturally, economically in this country?

Thank you for articulating this so well.