That's horrible for that dear lady to have lost her job! I'd spend my free time writing that particular co-workers contact info in every public place
I've wrestled with this one myself. I will say, when the mood strikes, I flip through the showcases and appreciate a beautiful smile - I imagine the men feel the same way.
For me, I just can't risk it. I work in high circles and cannot risk my career. Although the thought of my ex-VP or a man I've exchanged business cards with at a networking function showing up horrifies me, I've decided to take my chances. I still occassionally practice what look I'd muster up upon recognition:
(raised eyebrows, crunched nosed) FRIGHT - what the hell...are you stalking me? ... Or (raised eyebrows, wide smiled) PLEASANT SURPRISE...Hey! Can I get you a water? Pop tart?
Life can change in a single moment...the possibilities are endless! In this, I remain hopeful and foolishly optimistic
What if I hit the lotto tonight and have my spot on Good Morning America tomorrow? Certainly wouldn't want that to put a damper on my interview.
What if I meet the next Ronald Reagan? Suspicion and accusations, I can deal with that but sure proof would be so unbecoming of the First Lady.
Far worse would be this:
What if I catch my "big break" and in a few years just as I kneel down to imprint my hands in the wet concrete on Hollywood Boulevard, I look up to smile and I'm confronted with my ad ... The camera snaps and in lieu of a smile, the "I smell poop look" would be captured. That'd ruin the moment. *sigh*