Okay, I'll try and start writing about how I got where I am. It may be a little disjointed but I'll write as I recollect.

I joined this organisation about five and a half years ago and I was made to understand that I would be judged based on my performance and nothing else (I had apprehensions about being a black man working in Scotland). Not too many black men in Scotland work in offices. It seems to be the case that most black guys, no matter how qualified, have to do menial jobs. I even had a doctor friend who was working as a security guard before he found a job and moved downsouth.

Anyway, I have distracted.
Not long after I started working here, a lady (I was to find out later that she is very popular) insulted me by telling me in no uncertain terms that I had come to Scotland and had been given a council flat when locals cant get flat and that I should return whence I came. I found this rather insulting especially considering the fact that I had taken a run down flat in an area where no local wanted to live and I was paying due rent for it. There were also many empty flats around me that the locals did not want.

I reported this incident to our boss and he explained to me that she must have got carried away and I should just forget it. I did not forget it but I did not pursue it any further.

I tried to stay clear of her and tried avoiding contact with her whenever possible.

I'll continue this later...