It was a Wednesday morning in April

I was flustered for sure but able

Daunted by what was ahead

Younger, inexperienced, and new

“The little man,” and “a loser,” whispered the gremlins in my head

But I did my research and typed my notes

I went for a run that morning, prayed, prepped, ate my oats

I straightened my hair, put on my dress pants and blazer

Entered the corporate headquarters

Ready to debate her

I was escorted to the conference room

I stood by the cedar table overlooking the window

When she walked in

I felt the doom of one facing a tornado

Placid greetings kicked off the meeting

Then the clouds built

My heart sank as she launched her polemic

She was deft, strategic

I drew my sword – research

My contract, well-rehearsed

She rolled her eyes

Told me I used easy words

She reprimanded me for the email I’d sent

It was assertive yet diplomatic

I said she hadn’t done her job

Her eyes rolled again then they averted mine

This whole thing was tragic

All my hope died, I was hurt

But I kept my chest erect

Said nothing untoward

Closed my briefcase

Stayed polite, saved face

Apologized though not feeling I needed to

Walked away with no resolution

But I had a solution

Got online when I got home

Put in for some other jobs                

Went for a jog

A prospect called me the next day

I wore my best suit

Went for the interview

They told me about their policies

And showed me how they track quality

An easy word

But my favorite

Along with integrity

In an industry of vultures and sharks

I found one like me

A tenacious heart

They extended an offer

So I wrote a resignation letter

With some easy words

No need to roll my eyes

I’ve got my briefcase and blazer

Headed off to something better

On my way to being a history maker

I bid her well

As I let go

Forbidding bitterness to take root

Grateful, thankful, ambitious, light

Sun over the barren conference table

On a Monday morning, new turf

Knowing my worth

Ready to take flight

With my easy words