I came to South America with a very basic “tourist” knowledge of the Spanish language. I knew how to say “hi” and “good-bye” as well as “yes” and “no” (an easy one since it’s the same word) and “please” and “thank you.”
I also knew the essentials: “where’s the bathroom?” “check, please!”, “beach,” “wine,” “swimming pool,” and “beer.” Beyond that, I could say some other words, but I was far from making proper sentences!
In the past few months in South America, I’m happy to say that I’ve come a long way. I can ask lots of questions and nearly always understand the answers! I can even sometimes have conversations. Progress!
I have so much appreciation for what the (very patient) people of South America have had to put up with! I’m constantly asking people to repeat themselves, usually “mas despacio, por favor” (slower, please). And they usually do. And with a smile no less! And I’ve never felt that anyone has looked at me like I’m an idiot because I can’t speak their language.
I’m sad to say that experiences in the United States are often different. Many Americans get completely frustrated and impatient when faced with a non-English-speaker fumbling their way through our language. Eye rolls are sometimes involved as is repeating the sentence over-and-over while increasing the volume each time.
My point? I have two:
First, I have to send out a HUGE thank you to the people of South America. They have patiently helped me to get where I am and have tolerated my conversations despite them being completely devoid of any verbs in the past-tense. (I just can’t seem to master anything but present tense)
And secondly, I hope that my fellow Americans will lend a hand to travelers in the United States trying to master English. Don't assume that someone saying "I go from New York last week" is an idiot -- give them the benefit of the doubt and speak a little slower. And do it with a smile!
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