It still hurts

I have to acknowledge when I hurt.  Yesterday, I went to a function and was headed toward a spot where a friend was when I learned that ___________was there.  She and I were great friends once but, during our friendship, I entrusted her with my Dad's care during a period when we were looking for a caregiver.  Instead of helping, she  swindled my dad/me out of some money and was part of the nightmare surrounding my Dad's death. The money wasn't substantial enough to sue her but, the act showed me her true character.  So, at this function,  when I learned she was there,  I stopped dead in my tracks.  As much as I wanted to greet my friend, I realize that the memory of her fraud remains an issue with me.  Until I'm able to come to grips with the pain that she caused my family, I suppose I'll do what I did yesterday:  Turn around and go home.

Celebrating a great run

After eight years as head of PR for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, my term ended on July 18.  It was a great run although it was filled with ups and downs. At times, it was quite tumultuous.  My successor trained under me.  She has skill sets that will help take the Sorority to the next level of greatness.  Kudos to the new administration of Dorothy Buchanan Wilson on a great beginning.  And to Leona Dotson, I wish nothing but success as she builds on the foundation that I laid.  She will be great!

Join in!

I tend to be a loner…opting to be a free spirit rather than follow the crowd. Having a lot of folks in your life can both enrich it but also complicate it.  However, it is fine to do group activities.  I was invited to participate in a 5K walk and said YES.  I had a ball, got even giddy.  Realized that it is uplifting to be around people and enjoying group events.

Gotta keep doing this!

Be gracious

I'm about to leave a position I've had for eight years.  I will be honored for my longevity and for taking the agency to new heights.  After all, I have been there for two administrations.

I am tempted to talk about the ups and downs of my tenure, including the slights. As much as I'd like to slam my detractors, that would not be the time.  At the banquet I will be gracious and accentuate the positive.

It's better that way.

Let it go - do it anyway

Over a year ago, I had a big blow up with a friend.  We both held to our positions and we both thought we were right.

On May 28, he celebrated his birthday.  We haven't spoken in a year.  I'm not sure that I want the same type of intense relationship/friendship because of what came to pass between us.  However, on some level, I miss him.

So, I made the gesture and sent him an e-card for his birthday.  He responded asking how I'm doing.  I responded, via e-mail:  GREAT!

We haven't corresponded since and he hasn't reached out.  But I'm glad I opened the door to restore some semblance of a friendship anyway.  Yes, I let it go and reached out anyway.

And I feel good about it.  It's great therapy and cleansing to let it go.

Praise to Serena Williams for being a loyal friend

I don't often stray from business-related posts, but Serena Williams' loyalty as a friend got my attention. Hence, I'm devoting this to her.

Serena is Caroline Wozniacki's friend, although they are competitors on the court. Recently, Caroline was dumped unceremoniously by golfer Rory McIlroy. After she'd sent out invitations and tried on bridal dresses, he got cold feet.  Well, at least he didn't leave her at the altar. He ended the marriage plans -- and the relationship.  She tweeted her pain out and asked for friends to walk with her.  Serena promised she would.

Regretfully, both lost early at the French Open.  It was particularly hard for Caroline because Rory won his post-breakup tournament.  Caroline, probably more in pain, lost in the first round so she didn't get any vengeance on him.

After they were both knocked out early, I saw in the news where Serena and Caroline were hangin' out in Miami, at a Heats game, on the beach, doing girly stuff. I'm sure Serena's company helped cushion the sting of this public dumping and I have nothin' but love for Serena for truly walking with Caroline.

If they mess up, you have to make it right

In preparation for my pending retirement, I've been, slowly, saying goodbye to clients and referring prospects to others.  Recently, a publicist learned of this and asked me to refer clients to her.  About a month ago, I did just that.  A couple of  days ago, I spoke to her on another matter and asked her how the referral was going. She gave me one of those UH OH  responses, which meant she didn't follow through.  I was very disappointed and called the client, went by there and is now taking the client on to maintain my credibility.  I didn't want to do it and the fee is much less than what I'd charge but, you gotta do what you gotta do to make amends for someone who you referred and who proved to be unreliable.  But, a Facebook friend gave me the perfect script for future screw ups like this:  "I know this person to be reliable and professional. if that's not the case let me know right away because my relationship with you means a lot.