People say things like "its so quiet in here" and "this is awkward" when what they really mean is "I hope no one knows I farted."

When a conversation hits a awkward lull, it's helpful to have an innocuous phrase or question that will make everyone feel more comfortable and eager to restart the conversation. Here are a few good ones:

"So is it true that your father is gay?"

"I've been battling a persistent toenail fungus."

"Have you accepted Jesus Chirist as your personal saviour?"