Comments on: Top 10 Things Not to Say (Part 2)

By: Catherine

Catherine — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 00:41:17 +0000

The answer to the question of life, the universe and everything happens to be 42. I’m sure you know that the Super Computer has established this number as the correct answer after years and years of research, analysis and calculation. Unfortunately, the question has yet to be determined. But, coincidentally, your age is in direct line with that number, so I can conclude that as you ask this question, the answer must have some amendment as such: “Merle Hamburger and everything associated with his spirit, entity and existence, happens to be the answer to life, the universe and everything.” Don’t you feel noble now? Smile.

By: Sherri Pals

Sherri Pals — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 21:06:04 +0000

Hey Merle,

Good news- I’ve overcome my technology issues and figured out how to comment. I just wanted to say thanks for this list of things not to say (at least one of which I think I’ve said). I also love the 100 Merles example in the one about your prognosis, though I feel compelled to say that the idea of 100 Merles running around is just a bit scary! Hopefully, they wouldn’t all have gone to CDC orientation with me, or we most certainly would have been thrown out and returned to contractor status!

By: Kathy P

Kathy P — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 16:13:16 +0000

Merle – Good advise for all of us to remember, silence is never the best option. I am thinking of you often! I like the shaved look – very distinquished.

By: Rev. Debra Haffner

Rev. Debra Haffner — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 02:03:46 +0000

I would have added “have a nice day” which I think slays people when they are struggling. I actually think what people in general need to learn to say is “I’m sorry. What can I do?” or even better “I can cook, do laundry, go with you to a treatment, drive you somewhere, babysit, go to a movie with you” and so on. The more concrete the better.

I’m so sorry. And I’m sorry that the treatment is getting tougher to handle. And I’m praying.