How Are You?

This question is difficult for me.  How are you?  I don't want to lie and say great.  I don't even want to say good.  Honestly, some days, I want to say, "Angry, frustrated, in loads of pain, and ready for a nap."  Other days, I want to say, "Barely walking, but thankful to muster a smile."  Once in a while, I can say, "Doing OK.  The weather is SO nice out!"

Lately, I have been turning the question around by not ever answering, but just smiling and saying, "How are you?!" with an excited voice.  Why do we Americans have to ask that question to everyone?  Not many people actually want a response.  The cashier at Walmart certainly doesn't want a 10 minute health update.

Why not try one of the following?

Salutations!
Good to see you!
I've missed you!
So glad you're here today!
What's new?

Let's try actually sitting down together and talking.  Let's ask meaningful questions.   What was the best part of your day?  What is making you excited about life right now?  Do you have any fun plans for the near future?

Rheumatologist

I went to the orthopedic surgeon today.  He referred me to a rheumatologist.  Now, we wait.  I'm nervous.  Scared.  I don't know what to really do except pray and keep living day by day.

The orthopedic surgeon emphasized the importance of keeping up with my physical therapy.  I've been working hard... I really have to make sure my leg straightens out completely.  I don't want to be wearing a brace.

I'm tired.  Walking up and down stairs at work has drained me.  Getting my blood drawn has drained me.

Going to bed soon.