In the piece "Waiting," the author reflects on the stark and often uncomfortable reality of waiting rooms in hospitals where time seems to stand still. The article poses a profound question about why beauty and comfort are so frequently overlooked in spaces marked by illness and the threat of death. It describes how, despite the existence of distracting screens, the atmosphere in these 'non-places' is often stark and uninviting, amplifying the emotional strain of those waiting for health-related news.

The author highlights personal experiences, including the birth of their child at the Hospital de Sant Pau in Barcelona, where efforts were made to beautify the birthing spaces. However, this consideration for aesthetics seems to be absent in waiting rooms, which could otherwise serve as a means of inverting the anxiety stemming from medical visits. By calling for more inviting environments, the article suggests that hospitals should prioritize not only medical care but also the psychological comfort of patients and their families.

Ultimately, the piece raises an important conversation about the intersection of health care, design, and emotional well-being. The implications of creating more pleasant waiting areas extend beyond mere aesthetics; they touch upon the broader human experience of coping with illness and the fear that accompanies it. Enhancing these spaces could transform the experience of waiting into one that is less about dread and more about hope and solace.