Some people are inherently good at grossing me out. It would be easier to get past their barbaric transgressions if they offer an apology afterwards. Unfortunately, the poor souls are not even aware that they are overstepping the ethical bounds of decency. Where is the self-awareness? Is there a tiny amount of propriety lurking in their hazy mind?

Let me give two proofs. Exhibit A: I have made it clear a few times that I have a torrid love affair with food. If I am not deeply engrossed in reading a book, then I am either shopping or trying out a new restaurant. I am a self-proclaimed foodie and proud of it.

So back to the subject. There was this one occasion when vicious hunger threatened my stomach that I had no choice but to feed it. Panda Express was the answer to my prayer. Now I also happen to enjoy people-watching (it is amazingly entertaining), thus I happily positioned myself facing a window to see the happenings outside.

There I was enjoying my fried rice, veggie roll, and Kung Pao chicken when I saw him. A guy wearing this gray too-tight-for-his-potbelly shirt and dark blue sweatpants. He was walking innocently enough while I was sitting inside the Panda enjoying my food. Out of nowhere, Mr. Potbelly reached into his groin and adjusted his balls! I almost choked on my veggie roll.

Did he have adjust his boys in public in a such conspicuous manner? I do not think so. Mr. Potbelly continued on his merry way without a care in the world, completely ignoring the fact that his very unsexy show nearly caused me to throw up. Thank heavens I have a strong stomach or there would have been a price to pay. Clean up on the seat by the window!

Exhibit B: It was not really of crude nature, but it still made my insides cringe. It happened one night when I was doing my grocery shopping at Ralphs. I remember that it was such a beautiful evening to purchase some foods.

I grabbed a cart, then proceeded to stroll inside the store. There is just something magical when you are shopping for food. You notice their different textures, their various splash of colors, and their assorted packagings.

I was a little tired so I did not linger on each aisle that much. When I decided that I had everything I needed, I directed the cart toward the checkout lane. The cashier was this older lady who was already familiar to me. She scanned my items one by one. I noticed that there were a few people waiting in line already so I had my cash ready. She gave me the total and I handed her the money. So far, so good.

The lady returned my change…..then the receipt. A receipt with a big blot of something wet on the middle. She was looking at me funny. My brain was screaming, “That’s a spit right there! Ewww!”. I understand that a person may have this habit of licking her thumb to separate pieces of paper easily. I guessed that moment that Ms. Spitty Finger was that person.

I am not the kind to start a confrontation, so I reluctantly accepted the receipt, albeit with two fingers as if I was holding a dreadful mouse by its tail. She did not even consider to pacify my disgust by explaining that maybe she had sweaty hands. No, she had to let me think that the wet spot on the receipt was actually her spit. It was a night to remember indeed.

I believe we are all capable of being uncivilized once in a while — it is our nature. But does that mean that we should disregard the decorums of being a human? I am not expecting a full-blown explanation as to why someone chooses to adjust his balls nonchalantly. I just want that person to develop a bit more sensitivity when it comes to his possible audience. An unsuspecting audience who happens to be savoring a pleasurable afternoon by eating her yummy veggie roll.

Art: Nasiuduk