“Doctor, can I go out on leave this weekend?”

“What have you got planned?”

“I’m going home to spend time with my family, to see my children at home.”

“Will you be doing any cooking or cleaning?”

“No, I learnt my lesson last weekend.”

“You did too much?”

“Yes, I didn’t think to ask for help, I wanted to do the cooking all by myself. It used to be so easy. If I had allowed them to chop some vegetables I wouldn’t have been so tired.”

“It was a struggle wasn’t it?”

“Yes, I became irritated and grumpy.”

“You can certainly go home on leave but I don’t want you doing any work. You are there to rest and spend time with your kids. I don’t want you doing the housework.”

“I’ve had to let it go. After I am gone they will be in charge of the house and do things their own way.”

“It must have been hard for you to let go.”

“I don’t have much time left or energy.”

“You’re human, not superhuman.”

“Yes.”

“Are you going shopping again?”

“Yes, I have to buy clothes for the children…for them to wear to my funeral.”

“Buying the clothes sounds important to you.”

“I’ve always wanted them to look good. It’s important to look your best at all times.”

“Have a good weekend.”

“You too Doctor, see you Monday.”