I don't want to hear it. When I sneeze, I would rather not be blessed by friends and especially not by strangers. First off, I was never raised in a home where anyone blessed anyone else for bodily functions. A simple "Excuse me" from the offender was sufficient and expected.
It is a superstitious based custom that I do not partake. I don't exactly relish being coerced into joining the crowd.
I've been at work and one single person sneezes and four or five other associates sing out "Bless you." Distracting and comical. They must think they are being polite. They sound like mindless sheep.
I don't want any involuntary noises I may make acknowledged by others. Can't we just pretend it didn't happen? Why bring attention to it?
And what if the person sneezing has not one but a series of them, as if in a fit? How many "Bless you's" are appropriate? How many shout outs are they entitled to? I have seen those afflicted with numerous spasmodic episode become embarrassed as if, well, they are uncomfortable to be causing a disturbance. Well, of course! It is compounded by the recognition of innocent bystanders. Wouldn't it be less awkward if we all just kept any responses to a minimum? Or just gave no reaction as if the person passed gas? Why not bless other involuntary sounds we make? Burps. Farts. Coughs. Hiccups. Grumbling stomachs. Creaky bones.
In the case for sneezing, if anything, others should be concerned for their own health with all the saliva spewing about.
How bout a "Cover your mouth when you sneeze" for kids instead of sanctifying them? They are more interested in teaching them custom than cleanliness.
Gesundheit, while not a blessing per say, is still an acknowledgment. Let's just sneeze, say "excuse me" and end it.
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