Oops!

We have all experienced moments of 'Oops'. Spill something? Oops. Drop something? Oops. Typically, we use 'Oops' for spills and drops. However, what if you accidentally crash into someone's car, fence, or front door? Oops. Overdrawn at the bank? Oops. Lost your job? Oops. Made a mistake in the stock market? Oops, oops, oops. Traditionally used for minor accidents like coffee spills and broken dishes, I propose that 'Oops' should encompass more significant events. Why? It's simple. By using 'Oops' for major mistakes, it helps reduce the pain. Your child ends up in jail. Oops. Missed your flight? Oops. Instead of guilty by association, it becomes 'trivial by association'.

I hear you asking if I have ever considered counseling. Yes, I’ve considered counseling. Not for me. I’ve considered it as a career choice. Strange question. I am the first to admit that I lack the patience to be a counselor. My response to someone who returns session after session with the same issues would be, “Didn’t we discuss this last week? Look, I told you what to do about your mother-in-law, your alcoholic husband, your tendency to steal. Don’t you have anything new that is wrong?” So, thank you for associating me with counseling; I may have the wisdom but not the patience. Saying, “Don’t worry about it” lacks the expected professional edge.

Years ago, I counseled a friend who was having major marital issues, I told her to seek professional help. The couple made an appointment with their religious cleric. He gave them good advice. He told them to, “Go home and stop fighting.” Oops.