WELL I never!
This week I was shocked. Shocked and stunned, I tell you, at seeing much more than I ever wanted to of a Newcastle councillor.
If I was using official language, I'd say that Allan Robinson's choice to remain shirtless for part of an online council meeting was "highly inappropriate".
If I was using regular language, I'd ask, "Why the fresh hell are you half dressed for a meeting? Who does that?"
Some might say that the public probably didn't cop an eyeful of Robbo's carefree appearance.
But these days there will always be photographic evidence of curious incidents. Proving that it is not an urban myth, there are pictures of Robbo and his bare torso.
Regardless of whether or not the public caught a glimpse of the partially undressed City of Newcastle elected representative, his colleagues certainly did. These are the people he deals with in a professional capacity. Not his mates or family members.
If I was in that meeting, I'd virtually excuse myself until I was sure Cr Robinson was securely in "audio only" mode.
With virtual meetings and remote working now common, I truly hope that the line between personal and private life hasn't been permanently blurred.
At home, it's no one's business (except possibly the neighbours) if you observe Shirtless Sunday, Thoroughly Nude Thursday or Free To Be Me Friday.
There is enough to concentrate on at a work meeting without having to cover your eyes when you talk to a colleague. Besides the situation being creepy, nobody's got time for that.
Sure, the socially distanced COVID-era has led to the decline of certain social skills. But we will inevitably have to reacquaint ourselves with them when we are allowed to mix and mingle again.
There's a lot to be said for being civilised in public. It shows basic respect for others and yourself.
Especially if you work in an office.
It got me thinking about other things that are not suitable for work (NSFW), or my preferred acronym KITYC (keep it to yourself champ).
For example, here are five scenarios that would earn a workmate a definite KITYC: 1. As discussed, any random state of undress. 2. Sharing details of the previous night's "hot date". 3. Talking about gross procedures that your GP usually deals with. 4. Offering daily updates on a messy break-up. 5. Any loud and excruciatingly long phone conversation about the subjects outlined in scenarios 2, 3 and 4.
Like when kids who are advised to use their "inside voice", adults might have to be reminded to "read the room" and try their hardest to recall how society functions outside their lounge room.
If you think you might struggle, pause before leaving the house and check that you not only have your keys, wallet, and mask, but that you are decent.
Keep yourself nice Newcastle, we can't cope with any more nasty surprises.
