So what's wrong with saying "Not yet, no. Maybe someday." and talking about something else? Your problems, no matter how unfortunate they are and how miserable they make you, are not other people's and if you go around inflicting them on others you'll end up getting a reputation as self-indulgent and obsessed.

There are nice, simple replies to the question. Just give one and move on. God may be out to get you, but casually conversing humans aren't.
(ubergeekian, Mon 16 May 2011, 11:35, 1 reply)

Firstly, best of luck with the IVF treatment. My own biggest fear is not being able to have kids when I'm in a position to want to do so.

Secondly, I can appreciate the pent-up frustration, even if I can't relate to it. The issue is that said person is trying to start a generic conversation out of pleasantness, not out of spite.

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/How_to_Win_Friends_and_Influence_People

1) Never criticise
2) Smile

I completely agree that suppressing what you'd want to say makes toxic bile rise internally, but unless they're good friends, it's not going to help and will just fuel animosity. We're kidding ourselves that whoever asked you the question really wanted to know anything other than "yes/no" before you asked them a question and they then rattle off about whatever they'd hoped to talk at you about...

I hope this isn't coming across as patronising - just that I've been a selfish cunt for quite some time and the above has helped

EDIT: Just read your username! :(
( elgordo, Mon 16 May 2011, 12:23, closed)

username came first, before all this, self-fulfilling prophecy?
Thanks, yet I'm not out to win friends or try and 'be liked' etc (can't you tell?!). Although that linko might be useful for other people . . .
You're damn right about the fact people not really wanting to know the answer, my god yes!
I still maintain its in the delivery, its not likel I am screaming this in people's face
(maggotriddendirtbox fast, feral and sharp as a tack since, Tue 17 May 2011, 6:44, closed)

I always thought your dirtbox was your arse

(Nanny Pat vote for me, Wed 18 May 2011, 14:56, closed)

me too
unless fistula(e) are involved
(maggotriddendirtbox fast, feral and sharp as a tack since, Thu 19 May 2011, 11:18, closed)