Irony Alert

This week I have been suffering through a cold. The Peace Corps interview was looming on Friday, so I went into high alert to combat it. After all, I didn't want to show up with a runny nose coughing on the recruiter (who, incidentally, shares my name). Why didn't I just reschedule the interview? Having waited three weeks for this date, Sept. 18, I was too excited to reschedule.

Despite my natural inclinations, I took it easy. I made myself soup brimming with herbs and garlic, ate lots of Vitamin C, and got plenty of sleep. Friday morning I woke up ecstatic for the interview, despite a sniffly nose and the remnants of my cough. September 18, I kept thinking, is a big day. It is the beginning of me executing this life goal. It is a step toward my future. It is my opportunity to show the Peace Corps I am going to be a kick-a** volunteer. It is... (phone rings)

"Hello?" I say. "Hi, it's ________ from the Peace Corps. Your interview is cancelled. Your recruiter is sick."