Telephone

Telephone / Library of Congress

After my stroke, I was having trouble remembering ten-digit phone numbers  in my head, in the correct order. I came up with a solution: interrupting sweetly.

Mr. Normal is on the phone. He says, “….my number is 1234567890.”

I cut in before he can finish. Friendly, I deliberately start the number over.

“123,” I say.

Mr. Normal, “….456… pause…”

“456,” I repeat, pleasantly.

Mr. Normal: “….7890.”

Parrot: “7890.”

“That’s right,” says Mr. Normal genially.

Works like a charm. Any other tricks?