OK, I will be a little two faced here.

First, I will also admit to asking "How are you doing" but I think it comes from not knowing what to say or how to offer to listen if there is something the person wants to get off their chest. For those better with words, is there a better way to convey concern, compassion, etc.? I also know that I had no idea what cancer meant just over a year ago. Although, I knew some people that had the dang thing, did not know what life was like day in and out and outside of spending a couple of weeks with them, don't think I could have known what they were going through.

I know I hate that, "how is Pam doing?" or "doing today". I would like to answer with go read her CaringBridge website and get back to me but constantly end up with trying to decide what to share with the person. Is there any good answer for people with good intentions without going into a 10 minute conversation or the "doing well"?