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Tom Burnett's avatar

...have you ever been interested in a patronage situation? (Brought a snicker.)

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Emily Burnett's avatar

I'm delighted to know it got a snicker out of you!

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Cathy Joseph's avatar

So many questions come to mind from your answer to Maureen’s question. I was fascinated! What drew you to Saratoga Springs? What preceded it? What have you loved from your experiences? What have you learned? Can you tell I love questions? So many people simply do not know what to say and out comes words that are meaningless. I might be tempted to give Maureen the benefit of the doubt, but no.

I believe encouragement is good when it is heart-felt and done with positive intent. Maureen preceded hers with a belittling comment, which tainted her encouragement. It has the ring of falseness which never feels good.

Thank you for the thought-provoking post, Emily!

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Emily Burnett's avatar

Thanks for reading and for your comments Cathy. And for your solidarity ;-) The woman who didn't know what to do with my life event may just have been having an off day or misunderstood, who knows.

I'm with you, that there is a type of encouragement that's authentic and welcome, and there are certain relationships and dynamics in which it's welcome. These days, though, much of it seems to be more of the "I'm giving my stamp of approval" variety which is disconnecting and draining for both parties.

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