French Kissing in the U.S.A.

Ever since returning from Chicago, I've been sick. First it was the flu - an explosive affair that lasted for almost two weeks. This past weekend, I caught a cold. My post nasal drip is now accompanied by a cough and sinus pressure. I blame it on the American gay man's way of saying hello (as demonstrated by kiss after kiss after kiss on New Year's Eve).

Unlike in Paris where you kiss to the left and right to say hello, in America most gay men go "straight" for the lips. Some avoid it - but then receive comical taunts for sidestepping the issue. Here's the deal: don't take it personally. We just don't want to share the bugs you've been passing between friends for the past 24 hours.

So here's to bringing "French Kissing" to the U.S.A. Left cheek. Right cheek. No germs. Spread the word.