When Thumbs are Down

If we haven't received a rejection in some form, we haven't lived. Someone, in some century, will have told us that we're not adequate in a personal or professional capacity. 

The thumbs-down signal causes plenty of angst. Feelings of self-doubt, especially when delivered by loved ones, are hard to ignore. Feelings of being unwanted are difficult to process. 

Yet, much as we hate them, we have to acknowledge them to move forward. When we see time as an ally instead of a friend, it allows us to use it to our advantage - we can take the time we need to learn from valuable, albeit unkind, experiences. 

Finally, share your feelings with trusted individuals. They may not only be able to console you but also empower you to manage feelings of overwhelming negativity. 

Enjoy this little sonnet.

One does sigh when thumbs are down, 

When they swing firmly to unclear beat

When they point sorely to the ground

They move it surely off one's feet

But thumb, though sore, must within sight

Know the way, it we must see

Tool of friend, not one of blight

Will point to hill of victory

Thumb leads the way, though rather curt

Goes past wounds that heal with time

Though pointing down,  the way does hurt

It teaches reason, dulcet rhyme

Though downward thumb may cut the soul,

Soul does heal, becomes whole.