True story:
There is a guy I work with that is so literal, it can be impossible to talk to him sometimes. You ask him if the glass is half full or empty, and he will respond that the glass is always full. He will then explain that it (the glass) will always either have some form of liquid in part of it and the rest is taken up by some form of gas (thankfully most of the time it is oxygen).
If you say "Is everyone here?" He will typically respond with something along the lines of, "I don't think everyone will fit in the room, but I believe we have everyone that was invited."
If you ask him how he is doing he will say, "Mostly alright."
As a culture we are more accustomed to hearing "Good," "Fine," "Okay," but never "Mostly alright." This response tends to throw people off, and they think something is wrong. When they show their concern, our guy will then act as though it is they that have the problem. The comic strip this week exaggerates his reaction (though, only by a little)...
So, anyway, this got me to thinking. What is "Mostly alright"?
Definition:
alright - in a satisfactory or adequate manner
Mostly alright = Mostly satisfactory. Not a bad way to be.
*humbly steps up to soapbox*
I think the bigger issue here is one of people listening and responding appropriately. We are so culturally brainwashed to expect certain answers that we are truly caught off guard if we don't hear what we expect to hear. When was the last time you answered the question "How are you?" with absolute honesty? Better yet, when was the last time someone answered you honestly when you asked them the same question? If they had, how would you have responded (with confusion, concern, or indifference)?
It is so easy to get so involved with our own problems and concerns that we forget that others are dealing with their own issues as well. Take a moment today and listen to the answers to the questions you ask. Take time to tell someone you care for them, even if it is by the simple process of engaging them in honest conversation.
*quietly steps down from soapbox*
Anyway, so this guy is very literal. He is also a good friend and co-worker. I know that when he says "Mostly alright," things are going pretty good for him. Now, when he responds with "Not so good," "Mostly awful," or "I just can't say," then I know I should probably dig deeper to see what's up.
By the way, I'm fine. Thanks for asking.