I realized, though, that the people who were uncomfortable with me were that way because they were ignorant of my physical illness. While I don't feel the need to tell complete strangers about my IBD I have found it helpful to share my experiences with friends, family, and co-workers. But, talking about IBD isn't as easy or socially acceptable as talking about arthritis or heart disease or even breast cancer. Talking about poop-related issues just doesn't make good dinner conversation so I simply wait for the right opportunity to bring it up. What has been surprising to me is that the more I talk about it the more comfortable even I become with the IBD. I found my sense of humor about it nearly eight years ago. One friend said she was amazed at my ability to pull a poop joke out of my hat at any given time. I soon realized that humor lightens a conversation and makes many uncomfortable situations more approachable. And, the more I can talk to people about IBD and its related symptoms the more understanding and empathetic people become around me. I become more approachable and less of a mystery.
