One of the weirdest days of my life happened when I was informed that I was under investigation for sexual harassment toward a female employee. Initially, the accusations floored me. I couldn’t believe that she said such things about me. I had never done anything to make her feel uncomfortable, let alone harassed.
Being hit with an EEOC investigation by the feds was not my idea of fun. My job running the psychiatric unit was stressful enough without this new wrinkle.
It was awkward explaining to my wife that the EEOC investigation of me regarding sexual harassment was no indication of infidelity. I mean, it’s not every day that you come home and say “I’m being investigated by the feds for sexual harassment.”
If my reputation had been less than positive, such an investigation would have had repercussions on my marriage, my job, and my professional licenses. Although unsavory, I found myself surrounded by false accusations.
That’s why I’m so glad that I had the chance to work with an experienced attorney who knew how to navigate the EEOC process. If you’re ever in a situation like this, I highly recommend that you do the same.
The investigation took several months, during which time I was on edge waiting for the outcome.
I was also in the position of having to continue working with the woman making the accusations as her supervisor. Being stuck in that situation, it was essential for me to keep my composure calm, document everything and hope for the best. Thankfully, the EEOC finally cleared me of all charges.
The experience was an eye-opening one and I learned a lot about myself. I’m thankful that it ended with a favorable outcome but it’s something I wouldn’t wish on anyone else.
Typically you assume that if you are being investigated for sexual harassment you are being unfaithful to your spouse. In my case, it was a matter of a disgruntled employee with a long history of using litigation in bullying others (I just didn’t know it at the time). It was only during the investigation that her history of using legal bullying came out.
When all the dust settled, the accusations were totally dismissed. Although I survived the situation, it left me with some new scars.
The situation taught me that some people do make false accusations of sexual misconduct, including affairs. I also learned first-hand what it’s like being accused of something I didn’t do and the awkwardness that comes with it.
I learned that there are some accusers who not only make false claims but use litigation as a club in making career advancements.
That situation taught me the importance of prayer and forgiveness. It was not the time to lash out in anger or seek revenge. I couldn’t afford the steep price tag of revenge.
If you’ve been in the situation of being falsely accused of an affair, you’ll benefit from forgiveness as well. It’s not that you’ve done anything, it’s about restoring your emotional well-being. The video “Forgiveness: Stop the Hurt, Tear down the Walls and Remove the Roadblocks” guides you through what you need in making it through such challenges.
If you need help in restoring your emotional balance, click the link, order the video and in a few moments, you’ll start restoring the emotional balance in your life.
Keeping It Real,
Jeff
