One of the things that makes civilization possible is that we all agree, as human beings with a certain level of respect for the dignity of the self and others, that we will generally ignore the slight differences, foibles, and mannerisms that make each of us unique contributors to society, and learn to tolerate, if not the great divisions, at least the minor discrepancies; for, if we stop doing that, then small fissures may eventually become a chasm that swallows humanity.

On the phone with the doctor's office:

Me: Hello I would like to bring my son in to have his cough looked at.

Nurse: Have his cough LOOKED at?