Strange attitude
Jan 17th 2008, 3:37 pm
#1
L2, GC, Surrey, OH, TX!
Thread Starter
Joined: Aug 2007
Location: Surrey to Dallas (via Ohio)!
Posts: 6,363
Strange attitude
this has been bugging me for a few weeks now so I thought i would post about it here to see what you lot think. (Aplogies if i manage to offend anyone - I am trying hard not too but 'racial' issues can be misunderstood too easily).
When I arrived I was surprised by the amount of Spanish speakers and the greater use of spanish language on signs and packets etc. Its not an issue I just hadnt realised it was like this. (last time i saw that kind of thing was when i lived in wales and all the signs were dual language). I have been served in shops a few times by Spanish speakers who have very little grasp of the English language. They look like rabbits caught in the headlights when i talk to them. Yesterday in a large local supermarket I took a loaf of bread to the bakery counter to get it sliced and the woman i asked was so 'servile' I felt like lady muck! She looked terrified and kept her head down and scuttled off with it. She came back with it sliced and also with a box of cookies which she offered some to my kids. So I dont think she was scared of me as she smiled and gave my kids biscuits - BUT she was almost bowing and scraping and i didnt know why. I wondered if it was my accent, my height (im quite tall), or whether this was a normal type of response to a customer? Do american ladies inspire such an attitude in those that dont speak the lingo? Or am I doing something unbeknowingly thats intimidating them. ANy ideas?
When I arrived I was surprised by the amount of Spanish speakers and the greater use of spanish language on signs and packets etc. Its not an issue I just hadnt realised it was like this. (last time i saw that kind of thing was when i lived in wales and all the signs were dual language). I have been served in shops a few times by Spanish speakers who have very little grasp of the English language. They look like rabbits caught in the headlights when i talk to them. Yesterday in a large local supermarket I took a loaf of bread to the bakery counter to get it sliced and the woman i asked was so 'servile' I felt like lady muck! She looked terrified and kept her head down and scuttled off with it. She came back with it sliced and also with a box of cookies which she offered some to my kids. So I dont think she was scared of me as she smiled and gave my kids biscuits - BUT she was almost bowing and scraping and i didnt know why. I wondered if it was my accent, my height (im quite tall), or whether this was a normal type of response to a customer? Do american ladies inspire such an attitude in those that dont speak the lingo? Or am I doing something unbeknowingly thats intimidating them. ANy ideas?
Jan 17th 2008, 3:42 pm
#2
Lost in BE Cyberspace
Joined: Jul 2007
Location: Cincinnati, Ohio
Posts: 8,497
Re: Strange attitude
this has been bugging me for a few weeks now so I thought i would post about it here to see what you lot think. (Aplogies if i manage to offend anyone - I am trying hard not too but 'racial' issues can be misunderstood too easily).
When I arrived I was surprised by the amount of Spanish speakers and the greater use of spanish language on signs and packets etc. Its not an issue I just hadnt realised it was like this. (last time i saw that kind of thing was when i lived in wales and all the signs were dual language). I have been served in shops a few times by Spanish speakers who have very little grasp of the English language. They look like rabbits caught in the headlights when i talk to them. Yesterday in a large local supermarket I took a loaf of bread to the bakery counter to get it sliced and the woman i asked was so 'servile' I felt like lady muck! She looked terrified and kept her head down and scuttled off with it. She came back with it sliced and also with a box of cookies which she offered some to my kids. So I dont think she was scared of me as she smiled and gave my kids biscuits - BUT she was almost bowing and scraping and i didnt know why. I wondered if it was my accent, my height (im quite tall), or whether this was a normal type of response to a customer? Do american ladies inspire such an attitude in those that dont speak the lingo? Or am I doing something unbeknowingly thats intimidating them. ANy ideas?
When I arrived I was surprised by the amount of Spanish speakers and the greater use of spanish language on signs and packets etc. Its not an issue I just hadnt realised it was like this. (last time i saw that kind of thing was when i lived in wales and all the signs were dual language). I have been served in shops a few times by Spanish speakers who have very little grasp of the English language. They look like rabbits caught in the headlights when i talk to them. Yesterday in a large local supermarket I took a loaf of bread to the bakery counter to get it sliced and the woman i asked was so 'servile' I felt like lady muck! She looked terrified and kept her head down and scuttled off with it. She came back with it sliced and also with a box of cookies which she offered some to my kids. So I dont think she was scared of me as she smiled and gave my kids biscuits - BUT she was almost bowing and scraping and i didnt know why. I wondered if it was my accent, my height (im quite tall), or whether this was a normal type of response to a customer? Do american ladies inspire such an attitude in those that dont speak the lingo? Or am I doing something unbeknowingly thats intimidating them. ANy ideas?
Jan 17th 2008, 3:45 pm
#3
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 6,669
Re: Strange attitude
Never experienced it myself. As to cookies, my kids quickly learned that they could get a free cookie from the bakery when they were small 
It is a tad disconcerting when everything is en espanol, but one gets used to it. Living in a very hispanic state you learn to go along with the flow.
It is a tad disconcerting when everything is en espanol, but one gets used to it. Living in a very hispanic state you learn to go along with the flow.
Jan 17th 2008, 3:46 pm
#4
Lost in BE Cyberspace
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 41,518
Re: Strange attitude
this has been bugging me for a few weeks now so I thought i would post about it here to see what you lot think. (Aplogies if i manage to offend anyone - I am trying hard not too but 'racial' issues can be misunderstood too easily).
When I arrived I was surprised by the amount of Spanish speakers and the greater use of spanish language on signs and packets etc. Its not an issue I just hadnt realised it was like this. (last time i saw that kind of thing was when i lived in wales and all the signs were dual language). I have been served in shops a few times by Spanish speakers who have very little grasp of the English language. They look like rabbits caught in the headlights when i talk to them. Yesterday in a large local supermarket I took a loaf of bread to the bakery counter to get it sliced and the woman i asked was so 'servile' I felt like lady muck! She looked terrified and kept her head down and scuttled off with it. She came back with it sliced and also with a box of cookies which she offered some to my kids. So I dont think she was scared of me as she smiled and gave my kids biscuits - BUT she was almost bowing and scraping and i didnt know why. I wondered if it was my accent, my height (im quite tall), or whether this was a normal type of response to a customer? Do american ladies inspire such an attitude in those that dont speak the lingo? Or am I doing something unbeknowingly thats intimidating them. ANy ideas?
When I arrived I was surprised by the amount of Spanish speakers and the greater use of spanish language on signs and packets etc. Its not an issue I just hadnt realised it was like this. (last time i saw that kind of thing was when i lived in wales and all the signs were dual language). I have been served in shops a few times by Spanish speakers who have very little grasp of the English language. They look like rabbits caught in the headlights when i talk to them. Yesterday in a large local supermarket I took a loaf of bread to the bakery counter to get it sliced and the woman i asked was so 'servile' I felt like lady muck! She looked terrified and kept her head down and scuttled off with it. She came back with it sliced and also with a box of cookies which she offered some to my kids. So I dont think she was scared of me as she smiled and gave my kids biscuits - BUT she was almost bowing and scraping and i didnt know why. I wondered if it was my accent, my height (im quite tall), or whether this was a normal type of response to a customer? Do american ladies inspire such an attitude in those that dont speak the lingo? Or am I doing something unbeknowingly thats intimidating them. ANy ideas?
Jan 17th 2008, 3:49 pm
#5
L2, GC, Surrey, OH, TX!
Thread Starter
Joined: Aug 2007
Location: Surrey to Dallas (via Ohio)!
Posts: 6,363
Re: Strange attitude
i dont always get free cookies! Its happened several times in different stores/places. The person just comes across as terrified and servile (best way i can describe it). I always though i was a friendly person - and am polite to people, saying please and thank you (ive worked in shops and bars so I know how I would like to be treated as a member of staff). I just hope im not doing something to upset them or something really.
Jan 17th 2008, 4:23 pm
#6
Riding on silver wings
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 10,543
Re: Strange attitude
this has been bugging me for a few weeks now so I thought i would post about it here to see what you lot think. (Aplogies if i manage to offend anyone - I am trying hard not too but 'racial' issues can be misunderstood too easily).
When I arrived I was surprised by the amount of Spanish speakers and the greater use of spanish language on signs and packets etc. Its not an issue I just hadnt realised it was like this. (last time i saw that kind of thing was when i lived in wales and all the signs were dual language). I have been served in shops a few times by Spanish speakers who have very little grasp of the English language. They look like rabbits caught in the headlights when i talk to them. Yesterday in a large local supermarket I took a loaf of bread to the bakery counter to get it sliced and the woman i asked was so 'servile' I felt like lady muck! She looked terrified and kept her head down and scuttled off with it. She came back with it sliced and also with a box of cookies which she offered some to my kids. So I dont think she was scared of me as she smiled and gave my kids biscuits - BUT she was almost bowing and scraping and i didnt know why. I wondered if it was my accent, my height (im quite tall), or whether this was a normal type of response to a customer? Do american ladies inspire such an attitude in those that dont speak the lingo? Or am I doing something unbeknowingly thats intimidating them. ANy ideas?
When I arrived I was surprised by the amount of Spanish speakers and the greater use of spanish language on signs and packets etc. Its not an issue I just hadnt realised it was like this. (last time i saw that kind of thing was when i lived in wales and all the signs were dual language). I have been served in shops a few times by Spanish speakers who have very little grasp of the English language. They look like rabbits caught in the headlights when i talk to them. Yesterday in a large local supermarket I took a loaf of bread to the bakery counter to get it sliced and the woman i asked was so 'servile' I felt like lady muck! She looked terrified and kept her head down and scuttled off with it. She came back with it sliced and also with a box of cookies which she offered some to my kids. So I dont think she was scared of me as she smiled and gave my kids biscuits - BUT she was almost bowing and scraping and i didnt know why. I wondered if it was my accent, my height (im quite tall), or whether this was a normal type of response to a customer? Do american ladies inspire such an attitude in those that dont speak the lingo? Or am I doing something unbeknowingly thats intimidating them. ANy ideas?
Good for you on getting the free cookies.
Jan 17th 2008, 4:35 pm
#7
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 68,280
Re: Strange attitude
I saw your pic up early ...you frightened me ....
Jan 17th 2008, 9:40 pm
#11
gurt mint nit?
Joined: Nov 2007
Location: In my shed
Posts: 2,776
Re: Strange attitude
this has been bugging me for a few weeks now so I thought i would post about it here to see what you lot think. (Aplogies if i manage to offend anyone - I am trying hard not too but 'racial' issues can be misunderstood too easily).
When I arrived I was surprised by the amount of Spanish speakers and the greater use of spanish language on signs and packets etc. Its not an issue I just hadnt realised it was like this. (last time i saw that kind of thing was when i lived in wales and all the signs were dual language). I have been served in shops a few times by Spanish speakers who have very little grasp of the English language. They look like rabbits caught in the headlights when i talk to them. Yesterday in a large local supermarket I took a loaf of bread to the bakery counter to get it sliced and the woman i asked was so 'servile' I felt like lady muck! She looked terrified and kept her head down and scuttled off with it. She came back with it sliced and also with a box of cookies which she offered some to my kids. So I dont think she was scared of me as she smiled and gave my kids biscuits - BUT she was almost bowing and scraping and i didnt know why. I wondered if it was my accent, my height (im quite tall), or whether this was a normal type of response to a customer? Do american ladies inspire such an attitude in those that dont speak the lingo? Or am I doing something unbeknowingly thats intimidating them. ANy ideas?
When I arrived I was surprised by the amount of Spanish speakers and the greater use of spanish language on signs and packets etc. Its not an issue I just hadnt realised it was like this. (last time i saw that kind of thing was when i lived in wales and all the signs were dual language). I have been served in shops a few times by Spanish speakers who have very little grasp of the English language. They look like rabbits caught in the headlights when i talk to them. Yesterday in a large local supermarket I took a loaf of bread to the bakery counter to get it sliced and the woman i asked was so 'servile' I felt like lady muck! She looked terrified and kept her head down and scuttled off with it. She came back with it sliced and also with a box of cookies which she offered some to my kids. So I dont think she was scared of me as she smiled and gave my kids biscuits - BUT she was almost bowing and scraping and i didnt know why. I wondered if it was my accent, my height (im quite tall), or whether this was a normal type of response to a customer? Do american ladies inspire such an attitude in those that dont speak the lingo? Or am I doing something unbeknowingly thats intimidating them. ANy ideas?
Suppose a broad smile and avoiding eye contact is a natural reaction to not understanding the language?
Jan 18th 2008, 12:07 am
#12
Lost in BE Cyberspace
Joined: Jan 2007
Location: NW Chicago suburbs
Posts: 11,253
Re: Strange attitude
I was wondering, if someone were illegal they might be extra polite. I have, at times, seen some of the Mexican folk seeming a bit servile - as if they expected to be treated badly. Sadly, some here do treat then badly I guess.
Also, if they struggle with the language anyway, an accent might really traumatise them.
Also, if they struggle with the language anyway, an accent might really traumatise them.
Jan 18th 2008, 1:15 am
#13
Concierge
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 46,474
Re: Strange attitude
In our neighborhood/area there is a large immigrant population (legal and illegal) and seems to be equally divided between Irish and Hispanic. The Irish are arrognant and in your face and while the hispanics tend to be quiet, unassuming and very accommodating.
For example, in a little Irish coffee shop that I frequent, the waitresses and owners are Irish. Most of the waitresses are here illegally. This is known because they are upfront about their status. The busboys are Hispanic. They usually do their work with their heads bent and keep a very low profile. I've made friends with one who is older and quite a lovely man. We talk when I come in and he always goes out of his way to make sure that my table is cleared and I want for nothing. He has been doing this for quite a while. Even before I started slipping him a $20 every once in a while for good service. I have to slip it to him because it is for him alone and not to go into the shared tip pool.
A really funny story was when they first opened up, Jim and I were attending a Insurance Reduction Class at the local Irish Center and at lunch break we went there for a bite to eat. The place was nearly filled and the minute we opened the door and entered, there was no one sitting at any of the booths or tables. One lone girl came to take our order and talked with us a bit and then the rest of the diners returned. Jim is very military with a buzz cut and he assumed that his demeanor shouted "ICE".
For example, in a little Irish coffee shop that I frequent, the waitresses and owners are Irish. Most of the waitresses are here illegally. This is known because they are upfront about their status. The busboys are Hispanic. They usually do their work with their heads bent and keep a very low profile. I've made friends with one who is older and quite a lovely man. We talk when I come in and he always goes out of his way to make sure that my table is cleared and I want for nothing. He has been doing this for quite a while. Even before I started slipping him a $20 every once in a while for good service. I have to slip it to him because it is for him alone and not to go into the shared tip pool.
A really funny story was when they first opened up, Jim and I were attending a Insurance Reduction Class at the local Irish Center and at lunch break we went there for a bite to eat. The place was nearly filled and the minute we opened the door and entered, there was no one sitting at any of the booths or tables. One lone girl came to take our order and talked with us a bit and then the rest of the diners returned. Jim is very military with a buzz cut and he assumed that his demeanor shouted "ICE".
Jan 18th 2008, 1:20 am
#15
Militant Ginger
Joined: Feb 2007
Location: Wrong Side of the Hudson River
Posts: 2,311
Re: Strange attitude
this has been bugging me for a few weeks now so I thought i would post about it here to see what you lot think. (Aplogies if i manage to offend anyone - I am trying hard not too but 'racial' issues can be misunderstood too easily).
When I arrived I was surprised by the amount of Spanish speakers and the greater use of spanish language on signs and packets etc. Its not an issue I just hadnt realised it was like this. (last time i saw that kind of thing was when i lived in wales and all the signs were dual language). I have been served in shops a few times by Spanish speakers who have very little grasp of the English language. They look like rabbits caught in the headlights when i talk to them. Yesterday in a large local supermarket I took a loaf of bread to the bakery counter to get it sliced and the woman i asked was so 'servile' I felt like lady muck! She looked terrified and kept her head down and scuttled off with it. She came back with it sliced and also with a box of cookies which she offered some to my kids. So I dont think she was scared of me as she smiled and gave my kids biscuits - BUT she was almost bowing and scraping and i didnt know why. I wondered if it was my accent, my height (im quite tall), or whether this was a normal type of response to a customer? Do american ladies inspire such an attitude in those that dont speak the lingo? Or am I doing something unbeknowingly thats intimidating them. ANy ideas?
When I arrived I was surprised by the amount of Spanish speakers and the greater use of spanish language on signs and packets etc. Its not an issue I just hadnt realised it was like this. (last time i saw that kind of thing was when i lived in wales and all the signs were dual language). I have been served in shops a few times by Spanish speakers who have very little grasp of the English language. They look like rabbits caught in the headlights when i talk to them. Yesterday in a large local supermarket I took a loaf of bread to the bakery counter to get it sliced and the woman i asked was so 'servile' I felt like lady muck! She looked terrified and kept her head down and scuttled off with it. She came back with it sliced and also with a box of cookies which she offered some to my kids. So I dont think she was scared of me as she smiled and gave my kids biscuits - BUT she was almost bowing and scraping and i didnt know why. I wondered if it was my accent, my height (im quite tall), or whether this was a normal type of response to a customer? Do american ladies inspire such an attitude in those that dont speak the lingo? Or am I doing something unbeknowingly thats intimidating them. ANy ideas?
My neighbour (the drunken parker) doesn't understand anything I say because the ten words of English he knows are mangled by my accent.
