veerji, i apologize if there was any misunderstanding. My asking for a private room to conduct the screening was in no way a "bow-down" to authority, or any indication that I am being intimidated, or being a wimp. It is simply for the reason that you mentioned in your post. I prefer that the screening not be done in full view of the general public, because, as you state, everyone stares at you as they go by, as if we are terrorists.
I don't cause a scene, I don't raise my voice, I don't get upset with the TSA agents, I simply state to them that I will perform the pat-down, but I require a private room for that to take place. No one (other flyers) is the wiser to what is happening.
bhul chuk maaf