What's Happening

We have a new department manager. She seems to be pissing off everyone in the department, except for me so far. She has managed to rub several people the wrong way with her lack of social skills and tact. From what I understand, more than one employee has complained to the store manager about her already and she just started Monday! I'm surprised that some of the ones complaining are the ones that can get along with anybody and never says an unkind word. I only talked with her briefly for the first time yesterday. She seems to know jewelry very well and said nothing remotely rude like I've been hearing from others. I actually called in sick today with an upset stomach, and she was very pleasant and understanding, wished me well, etc. It seems as though the ones she is having issues with are the women thus far. Of course there are only a couple of guys in her area, the rest are women. Who knows what is going on. I'll worry about it when it directly affects me or I'm present for an episode.

I had decided against pursuing the position at this time. My mother told me that my father has stage 4 emphysema so I'm hesitate to take on more responsibility given the uncertainty with his health. He is now on oxygen all most all of the time he is at home and uses his inhaler often. It won't get any better sadly. My mother expressed her concern that he may not be here for next Christmas. That worries me too. Despite the fact that I know my parents will not live forever, it still feels like a punch in the gut to hear it spoken aloud. I guess I can only be there anyway I can for them and do what I can. I can't worry about the future or things I can't change. I can only deal with the here and now. That is more than enough.