Day 3: PN23

Today I said NO to pretending I was “fine”. Six days ago, I started coming down with a cold. By Saturday the fatigue was enough to request a sick-day at work (after showing up and doing the necessary opening sidework), and by Sunday, I was scurrying around town looking for an affordable and prompt Covid test. The pain of my sore throat was so severe that I was afraid I’d relapsed into Covid. Nope—I tested a clear and obvious negative, and I stayed home an extra day so I could rest. Yesterday, I went to my second job, and it was fine enough. It was a half day because of the heater technician, and that was fine. I was expecting to be back 100% by today so no worries.

Nope. I awoke groggy. I didn’t want to go anywhere. When I showered, I made sure to clear my sinuses as much as possible, and man, those alien life forms almost had names. I took more medicine, and I dragged myself into the office.

I’m glad I did because I needed the money, the distraction, and the opportunity to show myself as less than 100% at the office. My boss asked if I felt better than I sounded, and I was honest, “It’s about equal.” No glossing over my pain, no pretending that I’m “fine”.

I think I’m going to like this new approach of telling my truth always.

And it’s time for bed not because it’s bedtime, but because I just can’t keep my eyes open. Still. So. Tired.

Until next time.