brave on the rocks

me: it's all just one big tragic misunderstanding...

b: what is?

me: life.

b: you know, it's refreshing when you're a little dark. you're far too joyful all the time, considering.

this was the end of a conversation at work the other day.

the day one of my employees told me she had feelings for me.

file that under: things you don't see coming.

it was the end of my clinical supervision with her.

i care about my employees, absolutely.

i ask them about their lives,

and their stress level, 

and remember things like their kid's birthday.

but at work, i'm all about work.

i don't hang out with employees outside the office,

i imagine i can be a little cold.

this gal, so shy. 

still pretty new to the office.

you would just never expect it.

when she said, "i need to tell you something..."

i thought she was going to tell me she was quitting.

going back to school or moving home.

nope.

i'm pretty good about staying neutral,

playing it cool,

 but i was literally shocked.

she was SUPER embarrassed.

i hope i was kind.

i'm not sure what she was hoping would come of that completely unprofessional disclosure,

but a part of me is a little impressed*.

i mean, she just said it.

went for it.

so seemingly uncharacteristic of her.

and now she knows. 

she knows i like boys,

she knows i would never entertain something unprofessional at work,

and she just has to embrace reality.

no wondering,

or thinking, 

just truth.

how refreshing somehow.

(uncomfortable for a little while- sure, but refreshing).

brave on the rocks.

good for her.

(*i do not condone telling your boss you like them. you should not.)