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Insidious Infections
SDaniels, good point about a weakened immune system. Definitely true. refriedgringo, by "infection" you mean bacteria? I've never heard that. Why would bacteria be any different? We develop resistance to any infection, be it viral or bacterial, once we are exposed (in a healthy immune system). Interesting discussion, nonetheless. I think that if you're going to try to avoid any common infection, it would be strep. I've had it a couple times and it's the worst!— September 16, 2009 2:20 p.m.
Insidious Infections
while I don't blame you for not wanting strep (it sucks), one statement you made is inaccurate. Even as an adult, the more germs you expose yourself to, the more your immune system develops and strengthens. It's beneficial for kids *and* adults to, say, eat something after it's dropped on the floor. Trying to avoid germs is impossible and counterproductive, just ask your sister Jane. (not that I always practice what I preach)— September 16, 2009 1:34 p.m.
Do Right
I don't think that it's "common decency" to acknowledge the passing of a distant relative by signing (of all things) a friggin' fruit basket. What does a fruit basket truly say - how can it show any empathy at all? It's a fruit basket. Make a phone call instead. However, I think in the case, Barb went out of her way just to prove a point. Which means that she went out of her way to make the whole thing about her, which was wrong. Yes, we get the point, you are different, and "real", but look how much drama you've caused just by trying to prove a point - which is really very meaningless in the grand scheme of things. I can't speak for you, but I'm guessing right now you're not feeling too great about upsetting your family. Because I'm sure you have a big heart. And now all of this, for what? Just to prove a point? And not a very important one at that. As for that very ill-fitting analogy - if it were about something truly important, such as a woman's right to vote, most of us would have a very different opinion. But we're talking about - and let's be clear - THE APPEARANCE OF A NAME ON A FRUIT BASKET. who cares? It was no sweat off your back. You didn't have to do or say anything. I'm not trying to hurt anyone's feelings here. I enjoy Barb's writing and will continue to do so. And I don't think anybody was trying to be heartless here. The world and our actions are not black and white. But it is impossible to not have an opinion about the right and wrong way to handle something. One thing I've learned - stand up for what you believe in, but also (just as important) - learn to go with the flow, especially about small things like this. Creating unnecessary drama over small things is just as bad as not standing up for the important ones.— February 6, 2009 8:53 a.m.