(no subject)
Even though it's irrational, I hate it when people don't say "Bless you" when I sneeze.
I'm not seeking the possession of good spirits in order to prevent bad spirits from entering the hole in my soul created by my sneeze, as those who founded the tradition sought.
I think what I'm expecting is that people will momentarily pause, long enough to acknowledge my existence. I feel reassured that I can trust that person cares enough about me to help me when I am experiencing some kind of difficulty. That brief exchange foreshadows them setting their own interests aside while I need them and because I need them.
Of course, there's always the chance that people say "Bless you" simply because they've always said "Bless you"; it's automatic and really doesn't mean anything.
How does one discern each person's particular motivation? If a stranger says "Bless you", is it a thoughtless habit or an expression of altruism regardless of familiarity? If a good friend refuses to say the phrase, are they uncaring, uncomfortable with bodily functions, or unconvinced that an obsolete tradition need be continued? Who knows?
Perhaps I'm overthinking. I still crave it.
And, my dear reader, I will not be silent when you sneeze.
I'm not seeking the possession of good spirits in order to prevent bad spirits from entering the hole in my soul created by my sneeze, as those who founded the tradition sought.
I think what I'm expecting is that people will momentarily pause, long enough to acknowledge my existence. I feel reassured that I can trust that person cares enough about me to help me when I am experiencing some kind of difficulty. That brief exchange foreshadows them setting their own interests aside while I need them and because I need them.
Of course, there's always the chance that people say "Bless you" simply because they've always said "Bless you"; it's automatic and really doesn't mean anything.
How does one discern each person's particular motivation? If a stranger says "Bless you", is it a thoughtless habit or an expression of altruism regardless of familiarity? If a good friend refuses to say the phrase, are they uncaring, uncomfortable with bodily functions, or unconvinced that an obsolete tradition need be continued? Who knows?
Perhaps I'm overthinking. I still crave it.
And, my dear reader, I will not be silent when you sneeze.