What I really got from her response is.. We literally make up in our own minds the worst case scenario 24/7 and we believe that to be true. I remember when my stutter used to be severe, I would assume everyone thinks I'm a loser, incompetent, looked down upon. I hope you know all that mental chatter is just fueled from the negative emotions you are already holding inside of you. Most people are kind. Most people care. Most people are patient. Put your focus on these people and let the negative ones filter themselves out. But most importantly, like the nice lady said.. Tell people you stutter. So you can lay down the bridge so they can walk over and understand what is happening.