Friendship in the Time of Sickness

Or, Why I Prefer to be Alone When I don't Feel Well...
I love seeing all my friends, but when I am not well I find it difficult to enjoy their company. I believe it's because I'm not capable of being able to fully interact with other people. It's hard to keep my mind off how sick I feel, and I do not want to bore my friends with all my complaints. Don't misunderstand me, seeing my friends, old and new, is the best and most important part of my life. But not when I have trouble thinking about anything except how rotten I feel. There are many ways people have to show they care about someone, and that they are concerned about that person's well being. Some people send get well cards or a personal note, either through the mail or the internet. Some might send flowers, or other small tokens of their well wishes, maybe something they know the ill person likes. Most people send me lots of money (just kidding! Please send no money or I will become very angry. Not really, but I will have to return it). I need none of these, because my friends always show they care, and that's enough for me.
But to be in the company of someone who is either sick or in pain, well...it's not a fun task, but a chore. It is a kindness to visit those who are sick or ill, but for myself, I prefer not to inflict my pain or discomfort on someone else. Plus, I am a horrible patient, and even bore myself with all my complaining. Even Edgar hides in his cage and pretends he's asleep when I am not feeling well. Need I say more?
So....I would never stop someone from visiting me in my time of recuperation (recovery), but I would ask that they consider waiting 'til I am able to truly enjoy and appreciate their company. Just knowing I will see my friends again is very powerful medicine.