They had worked in many amateur plays and documentaries. Sylvia had more of a flare for the dramatic. Vicki was more comedic but she could play many roles. One day there was an announcement of a part in a major play at the state Shakespeare festival.

When they read it they both knew it would be the start they needed. There was a problem. They were both wanted the part but there was only one role. They would have to compete against each other. They decided that their friendship would stand the test.

They said if one of them got the part the other would be happy for them. Sylvia was secretly thinking she was sure to get the part. The play was all drama which was her specialty. She knew that no one else in the town had their experience.

She was a little worried about Vicki but she knew Vicki was mostly a comedian. Sylvia was overjoyed. Both practiced their scripts in preparation for the audition. The audition day finally came and there were many competitors. Finally it was Sylvia and Vickis turn to audition.

Sylvia went first. She flawlessly presented an exert from one of Shakespeare plays. The judges whispered among themselves as if they liked her performance. They thanked her and told her they would be in touch. Sylvia thought, I got the part.

Vicki was next to audition. She wondered how she would ever beat her friends performance. She decided she would do what she did best, comedy. She performed a new bit that she had practiced. The judges almost fell out of their chairs laughing.

Sylvia thought, she is never going to get a part in a serious play with that. The judges thanked Vicki and told her that they would let her know something soon. Sylvia thought, they are just stringing her along.

Sylvia told Vicki she was great, but she did not really mean it. Sylvia was sure she had gotten the part. They both went home to await the results. The phone rang later that evening. Sylvia jumped out of her chair to answer it. It was a judge from the audition.

They told Sylvia she was not quite what they were looking for this time. She was devastated. Then the phone rang again Vicki answered while Sylvia pondered over not getting the part.

It was a judge from the audition they told her she is just what they are looking for and the part was hers. It turns out the part was that of a female jester, which was perfect for Vicki. She could not believe it. She told Sylvia, but Sylvia was not happy.

Sylvia went to the kitchen grabbed a knife and started slicing at Vicki. Vicki backed up to get away. She threw a lamp at Sylvia and ran out the front door while she was distracted. She called the police from her car. The police arrested Sylvia and charged her with assault. The friendship was destroyed.

Some people have problems with rejection. They may become violent. You must be able to defend yourself if things become heated. Friends, associates and family members may become unstable. You must have a defense strategy in mind if things get out of hand.