This week I had a conference call with a client, both females on the other end of the line, being snippy and difficult for no reason other than to say no and be in control.

Frustrated with the call, I became animated afterward. Not yelling at anyone or swearing or anything. I was just that - animated. I talked, sounding pissed off and beside myself over the interaction, explaining the call to my team.

One of my teammates, who I'd just helped through a breakup and stood up for on the call, said, "We should never show emotion in the work place."

I sarcastically said, "Oh, okay. So keep everything bottled up and never be myself, otherwise it's unprofessional. Got it!"

My boss, a female, without making eye contact, says, "Did they hurt your feelings?"

I have been told by all that my reputation is solid and the company thinks the world of me. My bosses are always praising me.

But today, I learned what my teammates thought of me likely before today and that I'm not allowed to be a man.

I spoke up. That's all i did. I didn't single anyone out. I didn't yell. I was just hot. And now I feel uncomfortable with the thought of going back tomorrow.

There is no where for me to go in this world. Every job I go to, I feel stifled.