I freely admit I have issues with people pushing their own lack of initiative and sense of propriety on me. It’s one of my major peeves. However, that isn’t always the case with those who can’t speak English. I really have no problem trying to help someone or even trying to converse with someone who can’t speak the same language as me. Granted, English is more or less established as the majority language but in keeping with the melting pot we had to adapt. Don’t really see any Portuguese signs in Fall River but I suspect it’s because the general public would rather not deal with our ilk. Won’t find a complaint there from me. I guess my general dislike comes from how it’s put forth. If you try to communicate to the best of your ability than I can’t help but do the same. Use gestures. Use comparisons. Do something. Don’t just stand there yelling at me in another language. All I can glean is that you’re angry or perhaps overly dramatic.
The language barrier is really only a tangible component of the greater problem in my eyes. A lot of people and I mean A LOT expect you to play by their rules on your turf. I’ll admit I’m the same way but I don’t think I’m abrasive about it. I just more or less play by my own rules passively until someone objects. I present my case as to why I did it that way. If they see otherwise and it’s their turf, oh well. Lose. I’m really uninspired to write. Tired as a mug right now unfortunately. Maybe more later.
Tags: America, boredom, English, Fall River, language, Portuguese, propriety, Spanish, speak, translation
