Hi Betty,

I have some questions for you Betty. Last week I spent a couple of days at home with my parents. I'm 24, and took a break from my job to visit them. One evenings I was in my old room at home chatting with my boyfriend and the conversation got hot and it led to phone sex. What I'm troubled with is, here I am propped up in bed, completely nude with my fingers rubbing my clit, minutes from orgasm when one of my younger brothers of 14 walked in. I dropped the phone and jumped up startled. I covered myself. I have never been so embarrassed. I yelled at him telling him to leave.At the time I felt ok with it, but now I feel bad about yelling. He didn't talk to me the rest of the days I was there. Should I bring this up again and tell him I'm sorry or should I just forget this whole thing? I don't know how to bring it up. I know it was an accident when he walked in on me, but how do I bring it up??

Thanks,
Michelle

Dear Michelle, Usually in these cases the less said the better. I'm sure your kid brother was as embarrassed as you were. It's too bad we operate with such a degree of shame over our bodies and sexuality that a harmless incident like this causes everyone to scream with anger or become silent. Maybe the next time you call home and your brother picks up the phone, just tell him you're sorry you yelled at him. I don't know what your level of communication is with him, but humor has always been my best friend. Wouldn't it be great if you could say, "The next time I'm home, I'll make it a point to catch you beating off and we'll be even." Any time we can lighten up with a good laugh is always a form of healing. Betty