Do you run into terrible people from your past often? How do you react? (how to, woman)

[Refugee56]

This year I have been running into many people from my past I would have hoped to never see ever again. These were a odd combination of old bosses, evil coworkers, old girl friends, distant relatives and bad neighbors. I have also ran into old friends who turned evil but keep calling me to get together and I would never return their phone messages.

Have you ever ran when you spotted one of those evil people from your past in a public place or were forced into an difficult small talk session when you run into people unexpectedly? Tell us your story!

[ellie]

I just smile, say something polite, if necessary, like "hello" and keep moving. Usually they are no more interested in seeing you than you are in seeing them. Drama? No.

[findinghope]

i have and usually just pretend i dont know them. since i am the type that shows how i feel about a person, they know i dont like them and therefore ignore me too---it's win win really. except for the fact that just seeing them leaves such a bad taste in my mouth and will then take a few days to forget them again

[ellie]

I've thought of a couple of instances where the person was someone I don't like and they really didn't know. One woman was drunk and started talking and crying and acting like she missed me so much. I had to endure this for close to 20 minutes till her son had the good sense to drag her away.

[shihtzumom]

If it has been a couple years or so I tell them I have no idea who they are! Actually was at an event about a week ago and had to do that several times that evening.

People that departed my life less then a couple years ago... well... they usually know how I feel so distance is kept.

[artsyguy]

lol no

[What!]

LOL. I run into people from the past I'd rather not see every other month. Usually these people avoid me as much as I try to avoid them.

[goldenplover]

hmmm...that happened quite a bit when I moved back into my hometown- encountered these people in the post office, in school, etc. Most of the time I pretended I had no idea who they were (it had been four years or more for some). However, with some who kept insisting, I convinced them that they must be mistaken and that everybody must have a "twin"

I have since moved FAR from that place, so if I were to run into them, I suspect that they would be more shocked with where I am than I would be at seeing them.

[eastidahomom]

An old attorney friend taught me how to smile and act like they're your best friend. It really knocks people off their socks. It's how he won me over cuz I couldn't stand him.

[Rcm58]

I run into a lot of people that know me that I don't remember but no if I get a call from someone from my past they are never terrible.