When Book Intelligence Overrides Common Sense

Sometimes book intelligence trumps common sense.  I don’t understand how long time colleagues (well-educated people with 30+ years of collaboration) can turn collegiality into animosity and betrayal.  I’m flummoxed by what has transpired during the past forty-eight hours.  A very close friend and consummate professional has been the object of a guerrilla attack upon his character.  This to a man who has the respect of high profile international leaders and other lesser lights with whom the person has collaborated; much to the other party’s financial and reputational benefit.

I don’t know what’s gotten into the water; how something functional can turn dysfunctional.  There are few things more despicable than character assassination.  I’m sure you’ve experienced similar to what I describe.  If you haven’t you are fortunate.  It’s paramount to be forthright.  If you have a problem with someone you can either talk with them or discuss it privately with your closest friends if you feel uncomfortable approaching the subject of your concern.

Taking the problem public is akin to fifteenth century public flogging except in this instance the whip is replaced by sharp tongue and raw back is replaced by shredded emotions.  How do we maintain semblance of order and respect in the face of lower interaction quotient?  How do we restrain the gossip hounds and the cancerous persons who infect everything they touch?

If you’re like me (heaven help you!) you attempt to play things honestly and righteously; not self-righteously.  We have to persevere amid turmoil as we manage fallout from the nuclear option.  I want to upbraid the culprits but they are too far gone to save.  I’ve dealt with them and their conniving and Machiavellian ways.   There’s no reprieve nor pardon.  The destruction they leave in their wake goes unnoticed.  Sadly they will move on to the next situation they desire to turn to their benefit at the expense of others.

I know this is not the daily uplifting missive but sometimes laying a problem on the table is the only way to get past it.  I appreciate your indulgence as I navigate these jesters and pretenders to provide whatever emotional support I can offer to my wounded colleague.

I wish you a day devoid of drama and pain.  May you don the Teflon robe of protection that provides easy escape from even the stickiest situations.

Love and hugs, Nikki DiCaro