Tuesday 14 October 2008

how are you?

Whenever somebody asks 'how are you?', the almost invariable response is 'OK, thanks' or 'good, thanks' or 'alright'. So when you aren't actually alright, it can be difficult to know what to say. All of a sudden the reply becomes far more unnatural and awkward. Wouldn't it be so much easier if it was more normal to say how we actually feel?

But the truth is, that even if one moment I am far from alright, I know that a couple of hours later, my mood will have brightened considerably. Either it's friends or routine, which occupy my mind so much that there's little time left to feel sad or alone.


I took this picture on holiday a couple of months ago. It was a very special day, and being so isolated amongst the water like this was an extraordinary feeling; a sense of awe which makes the question 'how are you?' far less important.

If my honest reply to this question isn't exactly what I want it to be, I know I just have to ride it out a little bit longer.

4 comments:

  1. A certain type of Australian would just reply "shithouse". Brief and to the point.

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  2. hey pretty face. I hope you're feeling ok. I always think that you need some time not feeling on top of your game to appreciate how good it feels when you are. And if all else fails, there's always chocolate!

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  3. I think everyone can relate to this.

    What would you do if you asked someone how they were and they actually told you the truth? ;) The seniors (OAPs) at the gym tell the truth when you ask them, and you can be hung up for ten minutes listening to them regale you with tales of illnesses and doctor's visits!

    Much better to give the positive answer as you suggest, because before long, you'll believe it, and it'll end up being true.

    xx

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  4. An interestingly varied range of responses there, thank you!

    I certainly find logging on to all sorts of thought-provoking and funny comments fantastic - so thank-you, 'I'm great' at this second! xx

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