Minding my Ps and Qs

After four glorious days away from work, I have lost my ability to suppress my discontented comments. Like a drunk, trying to mind their Ps and Qs (“pints” and “quarts”), I have been surprised hearing a few unrestrained comments leaving my mouth. It isn’t that the comments made were so derogatory or vicious, but I am usually much better at keeping these thoughts from leaving my head in a vocal matter. It might not matter so much except that my office is now sandwiched in between my boss and another person. The office across the walkway is within ear shot as well.

Earlier today, I caught myself grumbling when the caller ID showed a particular individual’s name. “Now what?!” After blurting out my not-so-nice words, I took a deep breath, and answering the phone nicely. I have no neutrality or patience when working with this person. She is very nice, and I would be ashamed if my words got back to her. Her demands, however, are inconsistent and unreasonable at times. To strain the communication more, she has a strong accent and speaks at a BQ pace.

*sigh*

I am in desperate need of an outlet for my frustration. Walking is nice, but it doesn’t cut it. The same is true with cycling. So, I tossed my new running shoes, a jog bra, running shorts and shirt into a paper bag and was off to the fitness center. I set the ‘mill at 12:00 minute/mile pace and began the slow trot. It was okay, but felt un-natural. My foot strike was too forceful as if I was putting on the breaks to keep the pace. I gradually increased the pace until it felt right. I “ran” – and it felt good. Even better, when the call came in after lunch, my grumble was a little better controlled.