This week has involved some interesting questions. Since I landed, I've been questioned constantly with regards to my origins. So far, I've had; Australia, New Zealand, Germany, France and by far the most obscure; Africa.
That was my favourite conversation to date, it was with a 2nd grader and went a little something like this:
2nd grader: Which part of Africa are you from?
Me: I'm not from Africa, I'm from England!
2nd grader: Oh, so is it your mom or dad who's from Africa then?
Me: Neither, both my parents are English too.
2nd grader: Ummmm, so why do you sound like you're from there then?
Me: I don't! I've never even been to Africa!
I still love the look of confusion on the kids faces when I start to talk and it sounds NOTHING like they expected. Sometimes, I can tell they are more fascinated by the way I say things, rather than what I'm saying but I'm sure they'll get used to me eventually.
I think it's really great for them to experience different cultures and learn things from a real life English/German/African person as it not only stretches their horizons, but also mine as I explore a different way of living myself. A couple of days ago, I was asked if I had ever seen snow before so I like to think I taught that person a little bit about life in Yorkshire! I was also asked if everyone in England says 'pip pip' and 'cheerio.' We don't live in a time warp!
Learning Curve
Today, I took it upon myself to ask one of the guys how I am supposed to respond to the question I am regularly greeted by:
'What's up!?'
When I say what's up, it usually indicates that the person is upset or angry so this has caused me much confusion. Apparently, I'm supposed to say 'not much!' Unless that isn't the truth, in which case I am obliged to spill all my true feelings - good or bad as I am politely greeted by a cheery American first thing in the morning.
I think I prefer 'how are you.'
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