Alive

"How are you?"

Probably the question that is most often asked in this world. My usual response? "Alive." It's either that or, "I'm good, how are you?" I mean, what else am I supposed to say. Most of the time when people ask, they aren't looking for a rant on life or a summary of your health concerns. They want to be polite or not awkward, and so make small-talk to avoid the possibility of awkwardness ensuing.

And I can't exactly say that I'm in much of a mood to lie in response to that question, either. Yes, I am alive. It is a simple fact and, if I am answering, invariably true. I could say "fine," but that is so cliche and overdone. It's almost asking for someone to pry further, even if they don't want to.

Perhaps by answering as plainly and blatantly as I do, I put an end to conversation, or at least a damper on it. But that doesn't concern me. If someone is interested in my company, they will pursue conversation. If they are not, then I have no desire to throw nonsense around in the air until it inevitably falls to a silence they are not comfortable with. I answer as I do. Deal with it.