Previous Challenge Entry (Level 4 – Masters)
Topic: SCUTTLEBUTT (rumor or gossip) (10/03/19)
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TITLE: Disgraced to Grace | Previous Challenge Entry
By C D Swanson
10/03/19 -
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Safely back in my office, I struggled with emotions. While engrossed in prayer, I didn't hear Barbara enter until she placed a cupcake on my desk.
"Barbara!"
"How are you doing?"
My best friend heard the disgusting talk going around.
"I'm okay, it's just--difficult at times. But, when I remember the reason for being here, taking care of these beautiful lovely seniors, I find joy."
When I started as an intern, I never would have imagined this coming.
Upon graduation I received a job offer. It was a perfect fit for all parties concerned, and with hard work, I got a promotion and a raise. And, that's when it , began.
A viscous rumor that made my head spin out of control. An outrageous hurtful accusation that was beyond shocking, as the bookkeeper opened the gates of hell. "Guess who got a big raise because of services rendered?"
It didn't take long for the rumor to take on a life of its own. Graphic details about finding me, and the owner of the facility in "acts of depravity" on his desk, and various places throughout the nursing home. All of the things I was being accused of were sick, twisted, and hateful.
The majority of employees make a mockery of my promotion and attributed it to what I had done with the owner. It never crossed their minds it was due to endless devotion, and twelve-hour workdays, or that I came in on my own time to help residents, and family members adjust to the transition of nursing home living, during weekends, or holidays. Or that I implemented and initiated an Alzheimer's wing, dedicated to their well-being, and so many other incidentals, none of which were taken into consideration. The malicious gossip, seemed to satiate their desire for assassinating my character.
I never gave up, I prayed for strength, and the LORD provided in a big way. The owner was retiring and asked me to take over. So, I went for the public health and long-term care license and passed.
The rumor spun out of control for years, until the LORD stopped it.
I hired a man for food services. He seemed compassionate, and just what was needed in the kitchen. While in a one on one meeting, he looked at me in such a way that I knew he had heard the rumor from his former place of employment.
I made it easy for him. "So, you heard and are conflicted about what you heard, am I correct?"
His eyebrows raised. "Um…how did—"
"It's okay. I know the individual who told you. A person I fired due to reasons that involved a resident."
Kevin looked at me and stood up, "I’m sorry to say, I believed it. But after working with you, and seeing the residents love for you, and your kind heart...I knew it was lies. Forgive me?"
"There's nothing to forgive."
From that point the rumor died, along with the laughter, mockery, and anger. In its place, peace, and a cohesive effort on all employees.
I give all credit to the LORD for bringing me through it, and rewarding my diligence, with promotion, after promotion, and blessing me continuously.
I pray for those who are going through similar scenarios, as well as for those who "start" rumors. I pray for all parties concerned. I firmly believe that the truth will always come to light.
As for the individual who started the rumor, I have no umbrage with her, I pray she found her way out of darkness. Because, after all, the Light is so much more illuminating, is it not?
***True story of what happened to me at my place of employment in the late 90's.
Also, He said to them, “Is a lamp brought to be put under a basket or under a bed? Is it not to be set on a lampstand? For there is nothing hidden which will not be revealed, nor has anything been kept secret but that it should come to light. If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear.”
Then He said to them, “Take heed what you hear. With the same measure you use, it will be measured to you; and to you who hear, more will be given. For whoever has, to him more will be given; but whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him.”
Mark 4:21-25 (NKJV)
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Wing His Words
I was curious, at first, who the "They" were. I figured out it was co-workers, but this opener might have been even more powerful if you named some of the co-workers, have them stage-whisper to one another, crinkle their noses etc. Maybe give the MC some dialog or thought in the beginning, just to start it out with a bit more punch, although you did identify a conflict right out of the box and that pulled me in. Be careful about little things like run-on sentences (1st paragraph, all but last sentence) and missing some commas that might make it easier to understand.
I do like how you developed your character. She has such courage and strength, and it's clear that it comes from the Lord. I think often the ending can be the hardest part to nail, but in my opinion, you did an awesome job with it. I smiled and liked how you resolved the conflicts. It has a clear Christian message and is spot on topic. You did an awesome job.