Laid Off, Now They Want My Help? The Irony! 🤔

Last month, I was let go from a management job I truly loved—thanks to a company acquisition that left me out in the cold. The way they handled it? Let’s just say, I felt blindsided and tossed aside. Now, while I’m still licking my wounds and job hunting, my old boss (who, to be fair, wasn’t the one who made the call) has reached out for help on projects I used to manage. Part of me wants to say, “Sorry, you missed your chance when you let me go!” But I also don’t want to ruin a good reference or hurt my relationship with someone who’s actually been supportive. I’m torn between wanting to stand my ground and not wanting to burn bridges. Have you ever been in this spot? How do you balance your pride with keeping professional ties? I could really use some advice from folks who’ve been there. 😓 #CareerDilemma #WorkplaceAdvice #JobSearch #JobCareer