"How are you?"
“How are you?” This is such a simple question that also can feel so loaded. How often do we just say “good” as a natural reaction? But honestly, I feel like I’m dying a slow, painful death. I don’t think that response is quite what people are anticipating to hear. You are all thinking a.) You’re being dramatic. B.) Are you seeing a therapist? C.) How in the world do I respond to that? D.) You look fine. Am I in the ballpark? So instead I say “I’m okay.” “I’m managing.” Or “Not great. But I’ll be fine.” These responses are also my way of opening the tear gates with someone who might not even care how I’m really doing. Now close your eyes and pretend you feel like you haven’t slept in days, someone took you out back and beat you up, clamps, belts, and ropes are tied tight around your limbs, weights are strapped to you, your neck is pinched, you have the constant urge to pee, you have a headache, and your stomach is in rotation of cramping, turning, and general pain. Now go to w...