I have to admit, I was feeling totally uninspired yesterday. Sure, I could have written something. I had plenty of topics. I just didn’t feel like writing about any of them. Then last night, I found myself getting plenty of inspiration.
I want to a small party where I knew some of the guests and didn’t know others. Of course, a common question is, “What do you do?” I had no problem answering that when I was simply unemployed. For some reason, though, answering it now feels awkward. I have a job, but I’m not working at it. I was saying something about Friday and not being at work, and someone questioned me about it. How do I answer? My friends know what’s going on, but I don’t feel like discussing it with acquaintances or strangers. Besides, the followup question would be to ask what health problems I have, and this is a party. I really don’t want to talk about it at a party. So I was vague. Still, it felt awkward.
More awkward than that was the person who asked what allergies I have that cause me to ask about every ingredient in every dish. I finally told her I have IBS. It turns out, she has IBD. Ok, similar but different. She then proceed to tell me all about a book she had just read, and the diet it described. Oh boy. At least she has a similar condition, so that’s better than when people with no idea what they’re talking about decide to give advice. But again, this is a party. I don’t want to talk about symptoms and treatments. I know she meant well, but it was too much. I kept trying to change the subject, and she kept bringing it back around. I think it’s worse when the person is well-meaning, because I don’t want to be rude. Still, this is my life and my body and I really don’t need every Tom, Dick, and Jane advising me on it.
It was an interesting evening. I had fun for the most part, but it was a good learning experience, especially for my new work situation. In terms of the bigger picture, though, it was a huge success. I spent over an hour baking, then rested, and was able to go to the party and feel good. I was in pain from standing so much while we all talked, but I was able to do it. I got down on the floor a bunch of times to play with the new puppy. I didn’t have to leave too early. Yes, this was definitely a successful evening!
Chronic Rants 