If there's one thing my mother taught me, it is that one should never argue in front of company.
It is unseemly.
And incredibly, incredibly, awkward for bystanders.
Unfortunately, it seems other people's mothers did not impart such wisdom to them.
Some time ago, I found myself stuck on the world's most
painful road trip when the couple I was with - both friends - began fighting.
This is not the first time I have found myself stuck between a rowing couple, but this time there was no escape.
At first I tried to mediate and explain where the other was coming from. But it was a lost cause.
As they bickered back and forth, I opened the window to try and blockout the noise.
Still the snarky jibes continued.
When we finally stopped, Brett went to the bathroom and Anna turned to me for sympathy.
"Can you believe him? He's such a prick," she exclaimed.
Actually, I think you're as bad as each other and should grow up, I replied.
Back in the car, a new argument started, with Brett calling for my views on the disagreement.
"No, no. I'm not part of this. This is your issue," I said, trying to be diplomatic.
Alas, I managed to start yet another argument as Anna reprimanded Brett for making me feel awkward.
"She's my friend anyway. She's not going to take your side," she stated.
Cue outrage from Brett who pointed out that he and I were friends before he'd ever met Anna.
And so it continued until we finally reached our destination.
Later, I discussed the situation with friends and was met with mixed reactions.
Some agreed with me that it is entirely inappropriate and rude to fight in front of people.
Others however, were adamant that if something was bothering them, they should be able to bring it up then and there and not wait until they are behind closed doors.
So, my question is this: Is it rude to fight in front of friends? And what should you do when confronted with a rowing couple?
