There's an old saying that reminds us all that life isn't supposed to be easy.
Our ancient ancestors had to feed themselves through the labor-intensive methods of hunting and gathering - the men tracking and killing animals for precious meat while the woman foraged the forests for berries and other edibles. It was all they could do day-to-day just to find enough food to keep themselves alive.
Eventually agriculture came around, by which man domesticated animals and learned to tend fields to provide sustenance for his family. The work was still difficult, but I would imagine it to be somewhat less dangerous than chasing wild animals in search of a meal.
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In modern times, agriculture is still an important part of our economy and way of life, for sure. And for some who farm, the food that is grown - both animal and vegetable - is for consumption at their dinner table. But for most of us, finding enough food to fill our bellies is as simple as going to the nearest restaurant or grocery store and picking out what looks tasty.
But no matter how simple this task should be for the masses, there are always going to be guys like me out there to make it difficult for himself to eat lunch.
As I was attempting to prepare a meal for myself in the newsroom earlier this week, individuals began pouring out from other parts of the room - and even from other departments. When I finally overheard one of them use the word, ''burning,'' I realized I was the source of their concern.
The fine people at Kraft left no stone unturned when printing the instructions for preparation of their product. They stand in large, bold letters on the side of its container.
''1.) REMOVE lid and cheese sauce mix; set aside.'' Yup, I'd done that. I always do that one.
''2.) ADD WATER to fill-line in cup; stir.''
Always remember Step Two. When you don't, you're left with a smoldering heap of noodles and packaging at the bottom of the microwave, and a stench throughout the building that your co-workers will be reminding you about long after it's finally dissipated - which, based on this experience, takes about three hours.
Sure, there were some friendly folks who reminded me that they have burned things in their microwave at home before, so it's OK. I reminded them, however, that at home there isn't a horde of venomous colleagues to ridicule you.
My ancient hunting-and-gathering ancestors would have been ashamed. But the smell went away and my embarrassment shall fade with time. And the next time I had Easy Mac - after I stirred in the water - I had two packets of cheese sauce to mix in.