That lady is an example if why I no longer shake hands with people (I will if I’m agreeing to something)....eeewwwww. The practice of hand shaking with EVERYONE drives me crazy...I’d rather give a hug or bump elbows...and that’s what I tell people (and do) with those who want to shake my hand.
“eeewwwww”
I’d much prefer to not shake hands with everybody too, but some inevitably would be offended. Just yesterday, while sitting in a circle for Sunday school, the man next to me kept coughing into his hand. Then came time to pray, and we all join hands to do such, ugh. It’s similar to the passing of the peace when the congregation all gets up and shakes hands and/or hugs one another. I just resign myself to knowing I’ll be touching all kinds of germs, and remain vigilant to not touch my face at all until after I’ve had a chance to wash my hands.
I too have a little issue with the “greet your neighbour” habit many churches have acquired.
I am quite happy to shake the hand of someone I am formally introduced to, provided I have the option of declining the handshake or there is a way I can wash up before touching anything or anyone I care about. A total stranger in a church I am only at because I am travelling on a Sunday? Not so much, really. I have no opportunity to wash up, between handshakes or before the sermon. I will NOT leave the pews before the sermon is over unless there is an EXTREME reason to do so.
Locals have immunities I do not, and I have immunities they do not.
While travelling, I REALLY don’t want to catch the local version of Montecuzoma’s Revenge, or any other common malady. I’m saddened that you might take offense, but do you really want to experience the Yellowknife version of Norwalk virus?