Speaking of feeling like an Immigrant

Funny how a little thing like going to the grocery store can give you a whole new perspective.  I went all by myself, without my husband to translate or to basically handle everything.  I was all on my own.

No problem, I was really just going to pick up some items for a salad.  And then I saw some pasta and thought I would pick up some to have on hand.  But I needed vegetarian pasta, preferably something with mushrooms, and I didn't know the German word for mushroom, or the German words for various meats to make sure what I picked up didn't list any meats.  (And I didn't have my iPhone to translate for me because the battery was dead.)

I literally had to look at pictures.  Suddenly, I realized what it must be like to not be able to read.  How awful!  Sure, I recognized some words (e.g., for tomato and basil) but other than that, I had to hope the packaging showed pictures of what the pasta contained.  It was pretty much a guessing game...

Then, of course, I had to interact with people at check out.  First, there was the customer in front of me who, I think, asked if I had twins.  I am pretty sure I guessed correctly.  Otherwise, she must think I am a freak who thinks everyone wants to look at my babies.  But as soon as she started talking to me, I felt terror and panic.  For some reason, the idea of explaining that I only speak English and not any German is just too embarrassing.  I know a lot of Germans speak English, but I know many of them are self-conscious about their English speaking skills.  Besides, I don't want to be one of those Americans who comes off as either ignorant or arrogant.  (I hope to continue Rosetta Stone to learn some German but the boys don't give me much time off.  Mother's Day cannot come soon enough!  I do get that day off, right?)

Second,  after I though I had successfully paid for the groceries, the cashier said something to me .  Again, I felt sheer horror that everyone was looking at me like some kind of idiot foreigner who didn't speak the language.  She pointed at some stickers and I think I correctly understood that she was asking if I wanted to participate in some rewards programs.  I said no.

I have a new understanding and respect for people who come to the U.S.  with little to no English speaking skills.  It's pretty terrifying.  Being able to communicate is critical, and being able to understand what you are buying is essential...

I need to re-think my pet peeve of all of the items back home being described in both English and Spanish.  I am probably a jerk to get annoyed about that but about half the time, I can't find the English description (usually it's staring at me but I miss it).  And, I do think people should learn the language of the country in which they intend to reside, and that includes me.  I guess I am embarrassed because I am one those people who sometimes annoy me...   I don't know.  

But regardless of how items are packaged, I will definitely have greater sensitivity to and patience for people who don't speak English, or the language of the country in which they are in.