Ooooh, these stories remind me of the time I had a flat and went to get the tire replaced. The lady behind the desk was obviously crying. Her eyes were all red and puffy and you could see stains through her makeup. I asked if she was ok and she explained that her dog was sick last night and passed away in the night. He was young and she had no idea he was seriously ill. I felt terrible for her and murmured a few words of support and understanding.

The wait for my tire was longer than expected, so I sat and read the magazines. Then I got bored with that and tried to strike up a conversation with her. I thought I might try to cheer the poor lady up. So I decided to tell a funny story about something or other. I must have said cliches like "Sick as a dog" and "I could have died" several times! I was mortified (oops there I go again!) but I didn't want her to to notice my thoughtlessness.... I think she was just half listening (thankfully)

My husband on the other hand was listening and kicked me every time I said one of the bad cliches.