Ha, I guess too late for me to worry about not reacting. I needed to respond to that e-mail, so I did. The emotional results were predictable. I'm going to be staying in my little corner here until I can look like I have some form of composure. The phrase "That is what I had expected to hear, but it is very upsetting," is true, and also an understatement. I'd hate to see what I'd be looking like right now if I didn't have my reactions under a lot of control. "Is there anything set up where 'part-time' people could sign up for health benefits at a higher rate or something?" The response gives me hope, but I can't really afford to hope, because it's probably going to be a false hope: "Not at this time, however I can tell you that it is something that is being looked at." I can't really sit down in the supervisor break room looking like this. At least I don't have mascara or eyeliner to contend with. Something will work itself it out. It always does, right?