Originally Posted by Analise
As long as people follow the universal rules of eating with their mouths closed, elbows off the table, no talking with mouths full, and no slirping of liquids, respect for others is thereby obvious.
Forgive me for nitpicking but I have to question whether the rules you list are truly
universal. I am sure in our travels we have all noticed eating customs that are quite acceptable elsewhere, yet are considered taboo, rude, or at least unorthodox at home.
Example: I have only been to Japan twice, but both times my interpreter has explained that slurping the noodles is a polite, time-honored sign of good appetite and enjoyment. (I took my daughters with me on the second trip because I knew they would love a week of slurping without reprimand.)
To the OP: Good luck with your *left-handed* meal(s). If anyone even notices I would hope they would not be so boorish as to comment. Your method may be a bit unique but at least IMHO it is neither inappropriate nor impolite.
