Fact of Life: people get sick

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Comments

[Christopher Bailey]

Rosa, I truly feel for your husband - and you.

Among the things that are so deeply saddening is the mechanistic nature of your husband's workplace. Just like a machine, the parts shouldn't break down. I've also worked in organizations that don't trust their parts. If you are sick for more than three days, you're either sick or taking advantage of the company. Better bring in a note so we can believe you.

It's also saddening to hear your husband's beliefs about his own self. And not that I blame him. Our culture in the United States rewards and lionizes those individuals who lay it all out for the organization - even when it is to their own physical, emotional, and spiritual detriment.

Sorry, I don't have easy answers to the issue. One is that your husband could find a workplace that values him as a person, not as a cog in a machine. Yet, not knowing him or the company he works for, this seems like a glib response. Besides, knowing you through your blog, I imagine you've already been working this angle.

My best to your husband and you. Be well.

[Rosa]

Aloha Christopher,

Well you've certainly made me feel great, for it's always wonderful to meet someone new commenting on Talking Story, and I do appreciate your stopping by!

You are most kind, mahalo, and Ker (my husband) already does seem to feel much better as I write this: it is amazing how quickly you can heal when you have that sense of relief, for after today he was due his normal two days off.

In Ker's particular case he loves his job, and he's been there, in the same job for 15 years now. He's "entitled" to 7 or 10 days of sick leave per year; can't remember because he doesn't use it due to the hassle and attitude that you cite. The issue (in his company at least) is that there may be good people who do trust each other, and they feel badly for each other, but they just don't buck the system and try to improve it, even though they all would agree it's flawed.

You are absolutely right: it's too mechanical. Sick leave is one of those "benefits" that is such a sacred cow in most companies it's just not reviewed regularly enough. Often it is entrenched in union negotiations and medical premiums, and so people think, "let's leave well enough alone," but that's not good enough.

Ker will be fine, however there are so many who go through this same thing. So my hope with this post is that we who can make a difference, wake up to it, and do.

Mahalo nui for your comment, it is good to meet you. Rosa