Happens all the time. Someone asks how you’re doing, and your
reaction is to say, “Fine.” Even if you don’t mean it. Even if you haven’t
taken the time to decide if you’re fine or not. Even if you’re really, really
NOT fine. It’s the answer they expect, so it’s the one you give. After all,
they’re only asking how you are to be friendly. They don’t want you to dump all
your current problems on them. So, you say you’re fine. But in Norway, they
have a better response. When asked how they are, they might say, “Oppe og ikke
gråter,” which roughly translates to, “Up and not crying.” It’s a bit like
saying, “I’m here. I’m not great, but I’m dealing with it. I’ll manage. I can’t
complain.” In England, they ask, “You alright?” and you’re expected to reply, “Never
better,” with your best stiff-upper-lip attitude. I think I prefer Norway’s
solution.
No comments:
Post a Comment