Yesterday, I anesthetized a patient who sports the last name of one of the more prominent organized crime families.
In the holding area I interviewed him and put him at ease with my usual banter and I believe I achieved a good rapport with him.
Having forgotten that discretion is the better part of valor, I asked the question that should not have been asked.
"I'm sure you've been asked a million times, but are you a member of that famous family?"
He smiled and said, "I'll answer your question with a question."
"Shoot." I said. (Another unfortunate utterance.)
He asked, "Do you know why the Sphinx has been around for about 4000 years?"
"Why?"
As his smile disappeared he said, "Because he asks no questions."
Point well taken.
