Gone with the wind....when flatulence strikes!

Greeting America, Imagine yourself at a elegant dinner party with friends and all of a sudden you feel the urge to pass gas. Now this may seem like a silly topic but this simple biological fact is sometimes unavoidable. We have all been there, and know how embarrassing it can be... so it is good idea to make sure that you know how to handle gas in a discreet and polite manner. Something about the sound of a human passing gas seems to make us naturally want to giggle. Within the confines of your private homes and amongst your family, folks generally handle these situations in their own unique ways. It is worth mentioning however that children often mimic the adults in their lives so you may want to set a good example for them early on. Growing up, my parents taught us that passing gas is a normal body function.(My mother is a scientist) However, in American culture, it is considered offensive behavior to break wind in polite company. When in the company of friends, associates or strangers it is best to ignore any obvious flatulence. This would include belching and/or burping. Most people know to say excuse me if they burp or belch loudly, but passing gas has more of a stigma and requires a little more tact. If someone has passed gas and the smell is overwhelming you need not mention it or comment. I would not recommend shifting the blame either, it only makes you look guilty.. (my boyfriend often claims that he "stepped on a duck") If you are unable to stand the smell or feel you may embarrass the person any more than he/she already is, if that is possible, then excuse yourself from the room for a moment, breathe some fresh air and compose yourself. Resist the urge to laugh or wait until you are far enough away from the flash point to laugh freely. If you are the person experiencing an episode of gas you should try to hold it in if possible until you can get to the restroom, closet, window, outdoors or at least away from others. If you happen to have a slip that everyone hears you may want to say something like, "Please excuse me" or, "I apologize, It seems my stomach is upset this afternoon. (If you haven't already died from embarrassment). I hope this post is useful in diffusing any embarrassing and potentially mortifying experiences. Have a great day friends!

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