I already answered today’s WordPress writing prompt on a different day. Rather than answer it again, I asked Google to give me a prompt I could use and I was not disappointed.

Have you ever had a challenging client or coworker who surprised you with their true nature?

I learned a long time ago to never go with my first impression of a person.

Some of the best friendships I have ever made were because I ignored the first impression I received.

My favorite example is a coworker I had about 5 years ago.

She was loud, expressive, and opinionated.

I learned over the years that people who are very loud and opinionated generally do not mesh well with my meek, anxious personality. However, I refused to assume we would not get along. She was a hard worker and, despite having such a big personality, I thought she seemed like she might be an alright person.

I was hesitant to get to know her… but then she surprised me beyond words.

The employer was less than honest with their employees and they liked to break the law. I reported them to some government agencies due to their wish to work employees without pay.

She became one of my staunchest supporters for standing up for myself.

When I couldn’t take the pressure I was getting from my boss anymore and the time I spent working when I wasn’t being paid, she encouraged me to say “no more” and stand my ground. She was more angry than I was whenever I was wronged. She was one of the kindest, most supportive friends I could have asked for at the time.

I could have never expected that response from this strong-willed woman.

My first impression was wrong.

I am so grateful that I had her in my life at the time I did. She was the friendship and encouragement I needed during what would become some of the hardest moments in my life. I still think about her and hope she is doing well.

Her voice was loud and her heart was made of gold.