I am, I know, an ingrate to complain of the heedlessness of those peerless doctors of philosophy who graciously shed their radiance on our humble meetings and conferences. Their large and well-furnished heads are full of schemes for the betterment of Man, for the development of dazzling new Paradigms, and the remolding nearer to the heart’s desire of this sorry scheme of things–and as such, cannot be expected to remember the humble details of schedule and quotidian chores as the rest of us must.
Still.
You’d think that one of these shining lights who has gone in for politicking, and has submitted himself to serve this great republic might remember that day of judgment known as Election Day, and not mark himself as fully available on that day to participate in one of our meetings. But, you would be wrong in so thinking. Or rather–you would be right, in that a month after marking himself available, his political duties suddenly occurred to him. Did he call me, apologizing for his forgetfulness? He could have gone in for the absent-minded-professor shtick, for which I have a fondness–bringing to mind, as it does, the foibles of my dear papa. Or how about, simply, I’m sorry, so busy, etc. No, this Researcher/Professor/Man of the People called my boss. Now, I have never behaved with anything other than obliging politesse to him and his colleagues, but perhaps he thought I might, I don’t know—have an impolite THOUGHT which might affront his dignity. Possibly—a sarcastic tone in the voice? Easier just to call the boss, who can be trusted to both listen and relay the information in a totally non-judgmental way, see examples below.
1) WRONG: Dr.— is too stupid to remember his name let alone a date.
2) RIGHT: Dr.— has noted that our meeting is the day after election day.
So I sent out emails to the group with new dates—and what do you know? Mr. Too Smart To Look At His Calendar can’t be bothered to reply. And, the date he objects to is still the belle of the ball. I have quietly and politely asked my boss for further guidance.
I am the VERY MODEL of a modern major administrative assistant.
Hope
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