Being from Connecticut and living in
the south has sometimes created a weird language barrier when trying to
communicate with my guests. Sometimes I have to ask people that are clearly
from the south to repeat themselves multiple times. I think I even understand
foreigners from other countries better. I feel bad because I do not want them
to get offended, but I can’t help it.
The one time I was really shocked at
how southern a southern accent could get was at the restaurant I worked at
before the bar. I did my usual “Hey GUYS, (not y’all) hoe are you doing today?
My name is Elizabeth and I’ll be taking care of you today. What can I get you
started with to drink?” The man answered me by telling me that since it was hot
outside, he was very thirsty. He asked me for a “big glass of ass water”. I was
so confused, but instead of asking the man what he meant, I nodded my head and
proceeded to the kitchen. I repeated in my head over and over “big glass of ass
water” when the light bulb came on. BIG GLASS OF ICED WATER. It was like a
revelation. All I could do is laugh at myself.
I cannot be the only one this happens to though. I’m sure
somewhere in New York when a little southern belle goes to explore the city,
she encounters the same problem. Or when one of us Americans goes to a foreign
country and tries to speak the native language. Maybe we should all just speak
a little slower and clearer.
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