La bise

Look - if you think about it - well I just can't bring myself to think about it.

The fact is that the first time you meet people you shake hands. After that when you meet you kiss.

You just do.

Very slowly.

Air-kissing.

Right cheeks, then left.

Old bearded chaps. Young chaps. Old ladies. Young women.

It's just what you do. OK?

And at least I don't have to feel embarrassed any more when I read about greeting one another with a holy kiss.

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