Help with my bad reputation!?

Question

I am a 36 year old and because of some really foolish things I did in the past, some including being in playboy 16 years ago, I have earned a bad reputation. Few years ago, the word about my past got out and I became the s**t over night. At work, most people do not want to be associated with me, and I even feel that my family’s attitude changed – they don’t call or visit as much. Some people from work attend the same church as I, and they must have talked to others about me because I sometimes get these weird looks after mass (although it is a possibility, I doubt that it is just my imagination). To make matters worse, over a year ago, my husband left me and I am now a single mother. Needless to say I feel extremely vulnerable and have very little hope that I will be able to put my life together. This past year I tried really hard at fixing things. Aside from placing my daughter as my top priority, I go out of my way for people at work, I show care and compassion toward my family, I attend a bible study group and keep a very low profile trying not to attract attention to myself. I know I messed up and I do want to make things better so my daughter and I can have a good life. Is there still help for me, or is it too late? I really would appreciate some kind advice, no putdowns are necessary – trust me, I put myself down about this enough! Thank you for all who choose to comment.

Answer 1

You should ask this advice at Jamrie.com

People on the website, should help you out.

Answer 2

Try to hang in there. Things we do sometimes come back to haunt us. No-one is perfect. We all have made mistakes that we have to deal with sooner or later. Your not alone. There are some things in life that we are better off keeping to ourselves because people can become so judgemental. The one we have tro really answer to knows you regret this and you are sorry. He forgives us and that's what matters. Part of reeping what we sow means we may have to face humiliation sometimes. God sets us straight in this way because he care for us and he cares for you too. Keep your head up and know you need to forgive yourself as well. The bible states that "we will be forgiven in the same way that we forgive others" So let this go and don't look back. You've been forgiven :)

Answer 3

It sounds to me like you have your priorities straight right now, and you are doing everything in your power to move on in a better direction. Mistakes of the past, are just that, and people need to let them go. Those who would continue to hold you hostage to them are the ones that are in the wrong... not you. So, you posed for playboy... what's the big deal? I wish I could have done that once in my life! Not because I think it's something "honorable", but it's something I think might have made me feel like I was "special" in some way. I never thought I was as attractive as others said I was. Maybe doing something like that would have made me feel better about myself... I don't know. Once, I almost competed for the Cosmo Girl competition, but I didn't. Then, when I saw who won, I thought... I would've had a chance at this! I knew, deep down, that I was good enough, but I still didn't think I was. What I'm trying to say is, I don't think it was so bad that you did what you did. And I don't think you should be punished for it. You obviously are a woman of character, and I bet you will go on to much better things in your life! People who put other people down, in my opinion, are just hypocrites anyway. I always think of the scene where Jesus is telling the crowd that is ready to stone the harlot.... "He who is without sin, cast the first stone!" They all walked away empty handed! Keep the faith! You're a good person, no matter what anyone else says, or how they treat you. Just remember that every time you do something good in your life. And it sounds to me like you're doing a lot of that. God bless you & enlighten you!

Answer 4

why didnt u think of this before when u was running around with your life

i know young and stupid back then,but i guess u just have to let the past go and make a better life,go back to school or what ever and show everyone your not a failure,hope everything turns out good for you

Answer 5

“A  reputation is what other people think of you; your character is what you really are”

Watch your thoughts, for they become words.

Watch your words, for they become actions.

Watch your actions, for they become habits.

Watch your habits, for they become character.

Watch your character, for it becomes your destiny.