One of the things that I love most about the Dale community is the authenticity that is so often modelled by our friends.
In many spheres of life, we humans tend to wear elaborate masks and avoid vulnerability. When asked how we’re doing, the typical/acceptable answer is a quick “fine thanks; how are you?”
However, at The Dale I am continually learning the brutiful (brutal+beautiful) value of being real. For example, we have a friend called Mark (name used with permission) who has been through a lot. When I ask how he’s doing, he says “oh, ya know, I’m working on life.” Another friend’s typical response to “how are you?” is, “oh, I’m trying.” And another’s is “ooooh, up and down, up and down.”
I love all of these answers because they are so honest, and invite an honest response when the question is asked of me. And the truth is, I’m up and down. I’m trying. I’m working on life. Aren’t we all?
How are you?
joannacatherinemoon 
Short, sweet, true!