Why, when we get injured or sick, do we apologize? For many, myself included, it seems so automatic – of course I should apologize for catching the flu!
It’s absurd. But it also makes sense; we’re suddenly using more of our “tribe’s” resources. We don’t want to be a burden, and we certainly don’t want the tribe to cast us out for being too much of one. So we soften the blow with apologetics and gratitude, hoping they’ll have mercy on us.
That’s not how it really works, of course. Those who care about you will take care of you, and those who don’t, won’t. So don’t feel guilty – feel grateful. And pass it on when you can.
The Opportunity Machine 