Gemotions

The company picnic was supposed to be fun. However, the cheerful atmosphere grated on me. As I listened to the small talk, I discovered, in a casual conversation, that the new hire was now making more. I immediately lost my appetite, pushing the burger around my plate.

I excused myself early, retreating to a quiet corner, the joyous sounds of the party fading into the background. The sunshine felt oppressive, the laughter hollow.

I started to focus on my flaws. I felt inadequate and unworthy. The feeling was a heavy weight on my shoulders. I felt my face flush with a mix of shame and anger.

I avoided eye contact with the new hire for the rest of the picnic. I did not speak to anyone. The picnic, which was supposed to be a good time, had become a source of profound discomfort.