Got a problem you’d like to share with Sidney? Write to her at: The Meridian Star, P.O. Box 1591, Meridian, MS 39301 or e-mail her at sidneycovington@comcast.net. All submissions are confidential and go directly to Sidney.



Dear Sidney,



Please help!

I work in a reasonably large company and really enjoy my work. The other day I walked in on what appeared to be an awkward situation between my boss and his secretary. By awkward, I mean it appeared as if they were just coming out of an embrace.

They are both married and I know both of their spouses. I abide by your advice, keep your mouth shut, it’s none of my business what they do, they are making their own bed.

That said, here is my problem: My co-worker and I were both in line for a promotion. We are both equally qualified and both would do well in the position, however my co-worker has several years seniority. I had assumed this would be the deciding factor in the choice, but I got the job. I can’t help but feel it was done to make sure I stay quiet. I really want the job and could really use the extra money. My co-worker is married and money is not really a factor for her, but I can’t help feeling like I have wronged a friend. What do I do?



Signed

Saw way too much!



Dear Saw too much,



Huh? And just how have you “wronged a friend?” You haven’t done anything, have you?

Remember, not everything is always as it appears. Maybe you misinterpreted whatever was going on with your boss and his secretary; then again, maybe you didn’t. But, say there was some hanky panky in the worky placy between them, the fact remains that you only “thought” you saw it, right? Unless one of those people playing office hockey isn’t your spouse, leave it alone … KYMS.

And another thing: why should you feel guilty for getting the promotion? How about maybe you got it because you deserved it, regardless of your co-workers seniority. Or, what if your hypothesis is correct and you got it for the reason you cited. You really wouldn’t know unless you asked specifically, right? I can only imagine that dialogue: “Boss, I simply can’t accept this promotion because I think I received it only because I think I saw you and Secretary Sal doing some inappropriate filing.” Oh, yeah, that’d really be a hit with the boss. Yep, he’ll just LOVE hearing that!!!

Certainly you don’t have to follow my advice, but if you decide not to and you go on and tell him you can’t accept the promotion, yada yada yada, then let me offer one more piece of advice: Tell him after you’ve found another job cause you’re gonna need one, Bub.



Love, Sidney



• Sidney Covington has a master’s degree in counseling. She is a patient advocate and public relations representative for Riley Hospital.