Kisses
June 28, 2010Posted by Kanga.
For the most part, I endeavor to be culturally aware and adjustable. There is, however, one thing that I find uncomfortable – cheek kissing. You know, the kiss on the cheek, anywhere from one to three, given as a greeting or good bye.
In America, this is rarely seen or done. It’s mostly considered something that superficial people in certain social circles do. Here, it is fairly common place and considered appropriate.
My first encounter was particularly odd. A man I was meeting for the first time moved right in and made kissing sounds near my ear. I was caught completely off guard and laughed in his ear. That was the end of that. Actually, I think he’s Canadian, so he should have known better. Americans probably have the largest personal space radius of any culture. It is bad enough for someone I know to move in that close, but for a complete stranger. Yikes!
It is supposed to be an expression of affection, so it is rather awkward to say “please don’t do that.” There are also forceful personalities who take that sort of request as a challenge which changes it from affection to “getting one’s way.” Sometimes, one can get off the hook because you are across a table or not able to get close enough and the kisses are “air kisses” blown from a distance.
So, give me a wave or a firm handshake. Thanks!
Living the Travel Channel 
So wait, do my hugs bother you?
Shall I stop?
OHGODWHATHAVEIDONE?!!??!!?!?
Strangely, hugs are fine. Not an invasion of personal space (unless attempted by a complete stranger). You’re our adopted son, of course you can hug us.