An older couple noticed they were both becoming a bit forgetful, so they scheduled a doctor's appointment. After the examination, the doctor offered straightforward advice: "Start writing things down to help your memory."
That evening, the wife had a craving. "Dear, would you mind getting me some ice cream from the kitchen?"
"Absolutely," her husband responded cheerfully.
"Make sure you write it down so you remember!" she reminded him.
He waved dismissively. "No need to write anything down. You want ice cream—I've got it."
"I'd also like strawberries on top," she added. "Please write it down!"
He rolled his eyes good-naturedly. "I'm not going to forget!"
She pressed on: "And whipped cream too! Really, you should write this down."
He sighed with exaggerated patience. "I understand perfectly! Ice cream with strawberries and whipped cream. Writing it down is completely unnecessary."
Twenty minutes passed before he returned, proudly presenting her with a plate.
She stared at the scrambled eggs and bacon in disbelief. "I specifically told you to write it down! And where on earth is my toast?!"