The Green Meanie

Some people say I have a bad reputation for being mean.

I think they are crazy of course.

My husband found a shirt for me that reads "I am not mean, you are just a sissy."

This implies I am trying to be mean. I am not trying, really. I think it's just my ugly mug intimidates people, I guess I need to learn to smile more, I am not a mean ogre, really.

I do have certain expectations and admit to being overzealous in the past. Now I think I'm reasonably cool, but like anyone I have my moments.

They still don't believe me.

Cases in point.

I had a coworker that had the same birthday, we joked we were twins, I was training her to take my place and my friends started calling her the Anti-Nora. When I inquired why, my friend replied well you know she is going to be doing your job, you are twins, and she is the nice one. This was my friend? At least she tells it like it is I guess. ; )

I had a guy who claims to be an vietnam veteran and former convict tell me I was too mean and that he couldn't handle me. Mind you he gets along famously with everyone else. (not! So again, not my fault)

My boss has been known to put people that aren't good workers under my supervision, with the intent of me either making them work or running them off. Why? Am I that bad?

Today my reputation was proved deserved. (At least to them.)

I like to hire college kids to work part time on my crew. For the most part this has worked out well for me. Last week I hired a girl who had referral from a former professor, she seemed alright, although possibly a little flighty. I hired her. I did intend to take a little more time with her and not throw her out with my guys, I thought they might be mean. While I am used to being the only girl about, many aren't. Typically we start people out on the not as nice jobs, not as punishment, but because if they aren't willing to pull weeds or carry a backpack to spray, they probably won't work out. Not everyone appreciates working outside in hot weather, with bugs and mud.

Today was her first day, she left after half an hour, before we even started using the backpack, and she cried. I swear I didn't do anything, she just said she didn't think she was suited for the job after all. No one believes it wasn't me, they say I ran her off. Not true, Not true, I tell you!

Around work, my reputation grows, however undeservedly, and this is what I tell them: 'I am not mean, she was just a sissy!"