it's not the end of the world. It's the beginning of a new life. It will be tough at times. But it will be better.

Uusally, when one calls for references, now days the only question that can be answered without opening yourself up for suit is "is this person eligible for rehire.?" That is the only question which can be answered. And by and large the answer is "no" because most employers have a "no rehire" policy. I know I do.

The mostimportant thing for you todo, when you are interviewing and after you begin your new job: DO NOT MENTION THE RAT. Do not talk about, refer to or comp,ain about your former employer. Find a way to leave that emotional baggage behind and do not mention him to friends, relatives or new work mates. It will reflect very poorly on you and make people wonder about you. Turn around and walk away with your dignity and your pride. You WILL land on your feet and you WILL be happier for it.

I've quit jobs suddenly, I've been fired and I've fired people. None of those events ever had the smallest negative impact on me. I always grew from the experience.

good luck

John