It’s because of conversations like the one below that I’ve developed a fear of talking to people. I say “Suesday” because it’s the only word I know, and immediately Khmer people are like “Oh! You’re white and you know Khmer! Blah blah blah blah blah!”

Huh, what’s that? Ok, just nod my head. Yep. Then they realize I don’t understand and it’s awkward and I try to say I don’t understand and it’s awkward. I thought I’d share this great quote with you that I’ve loved for a long time about the awkwardness of language barriers.

“I thought if I was around people, and listened to the radio, and watched the news, that I would pick up words. And I did and I can sometimes understand what people are saying, but all of the sudden when I have to say something back I just mostly act like people in Japan. When we go to Japan, the people we come in contact with are very polite, and they treat you like they’re so blessed that you’re there. Even though they’re just giving you a croissant or something. So that’s how I act in Montreal. Like people at the grocery store will give me my groceries and my receipt and I just bow. I don’t even say thank you anymore because I’m afraid they’ll think that I actually have verbal skills. So I mostly just act like Helen Keller.”   - Sara Quin