With the ever-changing weather (especially this year), immune systems are crashing everywhere. Chances are, every one of us either knows someone who is sick or is the sick one. For some of us, it's someone we live with. For when your roommate has a cold, here is the set of stages that everyone must go through.
1. Pre-Cold
At this point, Roommate is starting to notice that she can't smell you cooking dinner. She only sneezed once earlier so she didn't think much of it. Roommate still acts as usual. That is, until she sneezes again, and again, and again...
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2. Realization of Cold
She's been sneezing more and more all day. She appreciated all of the "bless yous" she got during her classes today, but didn't like the embarrassment. A single sneeze is one thing, but once you get past five in one class period, people start giving you funny looks.
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3. Denial of Cold
Roommate tries to convince herself that she is not getting sick. It's all about mind over matter, right? Plus, she has too much going on with school to have to worry about this, too.
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4. Supplies Run
Roommate notices we're almost out of tissues (A.K.A. she used a whole box by herself within 48 hours and can't find anymore). She kindly offers to buy tissues "just in case" while we're at the store. Even though no one is sick, she still wants to be prepared.
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5. Early Cold
She's beginning to get more and more drowsy. As someone who goes to bed early, it's odd that it's getting harder and harder for her to get out of bed. She insists it was just a bad night's sleep and nothing else - *achoo!* She drags her feet on the way to class wanting nothing more than to sleep.
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6. Acceptance of Cold
Alright, alright, so she might be sick. She finally accepts her fate and starts taking care of business. We make a quick trip to the store together to get extra soup, cold medicine, and yet another box of tissues. She curls up for the weekend and dutifully takes decongestant and several naps.
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7. Super Roommate to the Rescue!
You tell Roommate that if she needs anything, that you'd be more than happy to help out. Need some tea? Sure! How about some soup? Done! Whatever she needs, you've got her back!
8. Healing Process
This goes on for a few days. You love your roommate so you are dutifully by her side when she needs it. Through the sniffles and bags of used tissues, you're right there with her with soup and blankets in hand. That is, until...
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9. ACHOO!
As they say, "sharing is caring."
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We would do anything for our roommates and they would do anything for us. We're with each other through thick and thin, mucous and all. So, go hug your roommate today!
Unless one of you is sick. Maybe just a high-five for now (and make sure to wash your hands).
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