It's one of my worst faults, but I'll come right out and state it... I have no pity for the sick. I grin as I admit it, because deep down I do sympathize with those who are seriously ill, or legitimately afflicted, but when it comes to certain people, I just cannot tolerate it.
For example, my sister and her little girl always seem to be sick. One's always sniffling, or the other has an ear infection, or a swollen gum or sprained knee.... you get the picture. And yes, I do understand that shit happens, but I get both exasparated and frustrated when I hear that she's up at the local hospital or sitting at the walk-in clinic. No wonder good medical care is hard to come by. It's not enough that we have a doctor shortage in this little hometown, but those who do line up for them seem to stay in line for a long time just to get a nod in agreement, ' yep. sure does look swollen...'
I get sick too, but I sure as hell don't bore everyone to tears about it. And I'm sure that the word 'hypochondriac' is never uttered whenever I leave the room.
Have we, as a society, lost the ability to use just good common sense? Does every minor ailment have to be acknowledged by someone with a lot of intials following his/her name? Maybe this is just a Canadian thing? I'm sure that people who actually have to pay out of pocket to seek medical advice don't just waste it on a shallow scratch or the catching of a common cold.
Either way, don't go looking to me when you've got a headache for sympathy. I do understand where you are coming from. But I don't really need to hear it. Suck it up, take a tylenol, and call me in the morning... about something entirely different.
