It was missing. It had not been returned to my stock and I was beginning to be concerned as to its whereabouts. What you might ask? Well, you see, aside from writing and working in the world of recruiting, I am an avid participant in theater. Along with directing and acting, I have been making and collecting costumes for about thirty years. I have quite a collection now that I not only draw from but also other directors with whom I work. I do not charge for the use of my costumes, I love that they are used over and over again.

I also loan them to friends, nieces and nephews, anyone who asks at Halloween time. I like that I have what they usually need, it is great fun. Recently, there was a Shakespearean production produced close by. I took several costumes in that might have been used, most were returned as they were not quite era accurate or elaborate enough. However, a gold and black braided headband never made it back to my stock. It had a lovely dark gold veil with gold trim that hung down the back. I haven't seen it on stage nor was it returned, so I wondered where it ended up...


It was made to go with a child's Juliet costume, so I hoped for its return as this is an oft-loaned costume. When you work hard on something and keep it in good condition, it is hard to understand when others don't have the same appreciation for your work or commitment. What you cherish is not always cherished by others. Whether it is your work ethic, the time you put into a project, or even your reputation. It is a regular struggle to not only stay grounded but also reserve a stock pile of respect that you have to draw upon when none is coming your way.

There are those in this industry that live and work only for themselves. I don't personally know any, but I know they exist. I have had numerous opportunities to contact individuals that work in the industry to conduct an interview and highlight them in a Bonus Track post. I really shouldn't be but I am always surprised by how valiant each interviewee has been. And there are those with whom conversations are still pending, where I am or they are just too busy. This happens and I never fear that I will not connect with them at some point. Then there are those that do not return my call or reply to my requests ever.

I recently heard a story of duping and deceit that just made me shake my head. I will share the details some day because I think everyone should know how corruption exists, not only in government and the mortgage industry. But there are those that don't return headbands and there are those that don't fulfill their split-fee agreements. Both prey upon not only givers but also experts. Taking advantage of someone is never an admirable quality. Taking advantage of someone who is an expert is downright stupid. The weeding-out will continue. And the corrupt will fall down their slippery slope, for they have nothing to hold on to.


by rayannethorn


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