Smart Arse

People who have known me over the past 10+ years, they have commented on my sharp wit and that I’ve got the quickest wit of anyone she knows.

Hello! Compliment. Right here…

There are people who treat me like I’m an idiot because I have a brain injury. There are many ways people comment on my disability. One particular consistent ‘opening’ is – “You look like you’ve been through the wars!” Which I received most recently today. I was a little wet from having to walk a short distance in the rain. So everything else is my base-line already and I didn’t feel the need to comment.

First time ever I came up with the best response, but not on the spot.

So, here’s how I will respond to that line in the future.

“Not a war, a battle! I won!

Yeah! This is what winning looks like and then imagine what loosing would have looked like.”

I generally follow comments like this with a sharp look and a smile. So they know I do mean it, but that I’ve also accepted it.

Another older lady sat in the waiting room to wait for her taxi. She also had a walking stick, now she commented to me; “That’s the thing with stroke, it takes your independence!” I’m sure I’ve encountered this woman before, her name is also Helen.

I respond swiftly with ‘Ah, but it doesn’t take our sense of humour.’

I think I even put a little Scottish brogue on it in the tone of “But they will never take our freedom.”