To Moon, Or Not to Moon?

When we get upset, we want to throw a tantrum, scream, throw things, and generally behave like an insane person. But sometimes, such tactics can backfire. For those moments when a tantrum will cost you more than you're willing to give up, we suggest you take the Canadian approach: mooning!

This August 15th, a group of Canadians are planning to drop trou to protest a U.S. surveillance balloon that monitors the international border. Angry about what they consider an invasion of privacy, more than 200 citizens of Sarnia will bare it all for the balloon's high-tech cameras. What a fantastic idea! And one that is completely fitting given the situation. But not all occasions are moon-worthy. Sometimes, a full moon can get you a bum rap (oooh, too punny!).

So, to moon, or not to moon? That is the question we propose to answer today:

The situation: You show up to work and find out that instead of helping customers, you'll be on the sidewalk dressed in a giant hot dog suit, handing out flyers.

To moon, or not to moon: You could moon, but you'll probably lose your job. And if you decide to drop trou after you've suited up, you'll only be shedding the bun portion of your getup—you'll still be wearing a hot dog.
The verdict: Not to moon.

The situation: You're at the local movie theater, excited to see Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince for, like, the fourth time. But they're out of tickets. For the rest of the night!
To moon, or not to moon: Most likely, the person working at the ticket counter is young and has a sense of humor. He might laugh at your unusual response. But chances are, you might know this person. He may go to your school. He may know—he may even be—your crush. A mooning could be highly embarrassing.
The verdict: To moon—but only if you're sure you don't recognize the cinema staff.

The situation: It's the first week of school and your algebra teacher announces that you'll have a quiz on Friday.
To moon, or not to moon: It really depends on how you want the rest of the year to play out. If you're comfortable with a brief suspension and you don't mind being known as the class clown, go right ahead. But if you'd rather not have your first impression be a cheeky one (sorry, we really can't stop ourselves), you might just want to study instead.
The verdict: Not to moon. You're better off finding some other way to make a name for yourself.

The situation: Your friends decide to surprise you on your birthday with a frisbee-golf party at a nearby park. Unfortunately, someone posts this info on Facebook and you find out about the party.
To moon, or not to moon: Before you tell your friends that they blew it, consider the fun you'll have if you show up and surprise your surprise party guests. When you arrive, they'll all jump out and expect to see you bowled over in shock. But the joke will be on them when they're faced with your bare booty.
The verdict: To moon. Definitely. Just be sure to untag yourself in any photos that show up on Facebook.

The situation: Your parents have decided that it's time to clean out the garage and they want your help even though the only thing you keep in there is a bike. But your mom hands you a rag and tells you to "get to work" wiping down the storage shelves. Meanwhile, they stand idly and ponder whether or not to keep an extra set of jumper cables.
To moon, or not to moon: The nice thing about mooning your parents is that you're not in danger of baring something they haven't seen before—after all, they did change your diapers. But a garage can be a dangerous place. And if your bottom's out in the open, it could be the victim of a random car oil explosion. And even if your parents have seen your bum, they may not appreciate your flagrant display.
The verdict: It really depends on your parents. If they appreciate a good prank, go for it. If not, keep your pants buckled up.

Have you ever mooned someone? What prompted the display? Have you ever wanted to, but decided it might be too risky (or embarrassing)?