The Buffer Rule

On June 3, 2010 · 8 Comments
Is it that hard people? Apparently…
Maybe it’s because I’m from the Northeast, but the buffer rule is an everyday part of my life. I need my personal space. Especially in the bathroom. 
I understand that other cultures do not have this, but here in Connecticut, we do.
Here’s the rule: If space allows, you should put a buffer space between us. A breather. A way for me to see you and not want to run screaming from your closeness. A way for you to stand back and look in awe at my beauty. (Well, maybe not that last one)
So today, I’m in my little stall, just me and the toilet paper. There are 6 stalls as you can see. 6. I am the only person in the bathroom. If you were to walk in… which stall would you pick?
Apparently the one right next to me. 
Why? What if I was having my #2 time? That would be bad for you now wouldn’t it? And, what if you were having your #2 time. Well that just wouldn’t be fair.
So folks, when you see this… (Yes I took a photo in the bathroom, let’s just glaze over the creepyness)
Choose another stall!
The buffer extends beyond the bathroom though, let’s not forget.
Other areas that a buffer can/should be used:
  • When talking to another person. A minimum of 2ft should be used.
  • When looking at something on someone’s desk. 2ft again, please do not try place yourself in between the person in the chair and their computer monitor.
  • 2 men at the movies. 1 seat should be placed in between (Not my buffer rule, but I have heard it from my male friends, I guess they need to stretch out)
  • Again for the men, when using a urinal. 1 urinal should be placed in between.
Got any more? I’d love to know.
 
  • Beth

    This made me laugh. I am also from the Northeast, and I totally get the buffer rule!

  • MomRoad

    Thank goodness I am not alone!

  • Liz

    probably because your new englanders have just 1 or 1.5 baths on your house…you're used to smal bathroom spaces. 🙂

  • MomRoad

    awww that's just mean! 🙂

  • Helena

    I am from the West AND the US and I need my personal space, so I get this! I would never want to live somewhere like Japan, where people are everywhere! And seriously, why would someone take the stall right next to a person if they don't have to? The only reason I could see is if the toilets weren't flushed in the other stalls.

  • MomRoad

    I would agree, unfortunately all the toilets were flushed. And it's a pretty nice and clean bathroom too!

  • Amber @ The Mom Road

    Ha! I knew I couldn't be alone in this thinking!

  • Amber @ The Mom Road

    Awww that's just mean! 🙂