A PIECE OF GRUMBLING

One of our residents easily develops hang nails on her cuticles. I Binged it:

A hang nail is a small piece of skin that has separated from the cuticle and is growing away from the nail bed. Hang nails typically occur on the side of the fingernail and they can be red and tender. Hang nails can be a minor annoyance, but they can also become infected if they are not cared for properly. Most health organizations, like the Mayo Clinic, recommend trimming hang nails with a clean pair of nail scissors as soon as they are spotted. Never pull, pick or bite at a hang nail--this is a surefire way to bring about a nail infection. As you are caring for your hang nail, be sure to wash your hands regularly to reduce your risk of infection.

But, here is the truth. She likes to fuss with and about her hang nail. When we cream her cuticles and gently push back at the anomaly, she fusses until the skin again sticks out and annoys.

Does this make sense? Well, here is the truth. We enjoy fussing which rapidily becomes grumbling. And while we are grumbling we are not listening compassionately. We are not asking questions that would lead us to understanding and peace. Understanding and peace demand we give up a piece of ourselves to others and that is hard work.

 

I made a rapid transition from a minor health issue to a major social issue. Because here is the truth, minor irritants quickly expand to become major conflicts.