“moo” and “oops, pardon me”
July 14, 2009 (Tuesday)
We all know that babies need a little help burping. We hold them so that their heads are at our shoulders and we gently pat their backs, hoping that only air makes it to our shoulders this time.
Burping continues to be very much a part of daily life for most people. In some cultures, burping as loudly as possible is a signal to the host that one has really enjoyed the meal. In others it is considered quite rude, as many a child in “time out” can testify.
The latest news about burping concerns cows. Seems that studies have shown that cows emit a considerable amount of methane gas, enough to raise concerns about the effect such emissions have on global warming. In fact, some say that 25% of methane in the air comes from burping bovines.
Scientists are busy inventing chemicals that cut down the amounts of methane gas from cows’ burps.
The debate continues about global warming itself, because some reputable scientists do not believe such a phenomenon even exists, at least not to the extent that it poses a threat to life on earth. The arguments continue, now including a methane problem. The herd is heard, however, as burps continue to be generated throughout the world.
Meanwhile, back at the farm, Bessie the cow, sister of the famous queen of dairy products, says she is embarrassed by all this publicity. Speaking for her species, in her sweet feminine voice, with a slight giggle, she says, “It’s just our way.”