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2.08.2010

Sick people, OCD and me...

Tired, half awake, I made my way to the cafeteria. Using my coat pockets to open doors and following in line behind others as I went. When I arrived at the front desk to swipe my student ID, I knew there would be trouble.
*Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough*
It was a deep, gurgling cough. But I knew she was too pure to be a chain smoker. There was only one other explanation.
*Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough*
*Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough*
Reluctantly I approached the stand, wondering if I should make use of the sanitation dispenser for what I was about to encounter.
*Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough*
"Hi there!"
*Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough*
It was the kind of cough that made you think of earthquakes, fire, flood and corrupt politicians. It was a cough to rumble the foundations of all the orders of ancient columns, Doric, Ionic and Corinthian. It transformed agile youth to wilted backstreet poor.
With caution, I ask attempted to procure myself a lunchbox from the stack to her right.
"Oh, no! I'll get it for you! We've got some new rules around here!"
She smiled.
*Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough*
As she reached for a paper drinking up, I waved my hand, and told her it would not be necessary, as I quickly fled the scene, contaminated lunchbox in hand.
I waived to a friend, gathered my food, and faced the exit. The exit is next to the entry...next to the front stand. There she was.
*Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough* *Cough*
I would have to be quick. I swung by the front counter quickly.
"I hope your not mad at me sir!"
I did feel bad, not saying two words to her. But...I had a busy schedule to keep.

Perhaps I exaggerate a tad...but I assure you t'was and uncomfortable experience non the less!

3 comments:

  1. people who cough continuously in public arenas especially in the food industry demonstrate little regard for the health and comfort of those they 'serve' or present. A habitual neglect of one's health or of others is a sign of some narcasistic co-dependant self loathing individual.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Nah. I'd just say she was naive. She seemed pretty happy and oblivious.

    ReplyDelete
  3. you know better your where there. let's just say that I have met to many like those i refered to.

    ReplyDelete

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