Day 6

Wednesday, September 6, 2023

DuSable Bridge

Getting sick is the WORST, and it seems that no pandemic can teach us that health really is the most important piece of the puzzle that is well-being. And while the post-pandemic working world is a lot more understanding about sick time, I still find it difficult to leave work early or call off even when I know it’s the right thing to do. American hustle culture is strong, but at least my boss was understanding when I explained the situation instead of attempting to bribe me with a free meal if I could only stay until 9:00 pm and take a few more tables (that's a true service industry story).

When you’re not feeling well, it’s easy to complain and get caught wallowing in self-pity. To counteract that, I’ll be listing all the things I’m grateful for today:

• My apartment- did I mention how amazing it is?

• My job- working can be challenging but I know that I’m at my best when there are places to go, people to see, and things to do.

• My book- the book I’m reading is really great so far and if I do have to stay home from work, I’m grateful to have it as entertainment (for those of you who follow Redhead’s Reading, get ready to see a review for Behold the Dreamers by Imbolo Mbue on October 1st).

• The little hotel bottles of shampoo and conditioner I’ve been hoarding for years- when we moved, I purged most of my collection, but over this past weekend, I found one more set tucked away in my suitcase. It’s perfect timing since we planned to buy more at Costco today but I’ll likely be sitting that out.

• My boyfriend- he always takes good care of me when I’m sick and makes this cinnamon tea that cures damn-near everything.

This list could go for ages but it is naptime.