You're story started out almost exactly like mine. I had lost a job that really did love ( I just couldn't stand the company I worked for) I was in the middle, not a manager, not bottom of the totem pole. I was the go to fix it person. I had a new manager that came in and felt threatened by me. I had gotten some accolades from some local people in prominent positions, 2 weeks to the day I was congratulated by most of the VPs in the company, I was fired. Supposedly, I had yelled at a customer. Funny, I don't remember it happening. I think I would know if I yelled at someone. It was devastating. The way I phrased it, I was making adult money.

Through some ups and downs and a lot of healing and trying to do what you did, turn it into a learning experience, I muddled through. While I may not have been able to find appropriate employment, I did find something that I am good at. It's sad when your children make more money than you do :( That's what happens when you start over so to speak.

I really enjoyed you post you said what most people are afraid to think after a situation like that. Very happy that you went for the higher position and got it :)