T.W.,
Baltimore, MD.
I am White, non-Hispanic, but I go to Mexico on a regular basis so I have worked really hard to speak decent Spanish. I’m not fluent, but I can get around, and I have a believable accent.
So back in the U.S., there are times when knowing Spanish comes in handy. I remember one time I was in the grocery store checking out and a group of Hispanic guys were standing by the door talking. (Not blocking my way, just talking among themselves. I quickly said, “Con permiso,” and they looked like their jaws were going to drop to the floor. They made way and I said, “Gracias.” I could feel them staring at me the whole way out into the parking lot.
Things like this happen occasionally and I’m always amused at the surprise I give people. I hope it shakes up their worldview a little bit and makes them realize not all “gringos” are dumbass Americans who don’t care enough to learn even a little Spanish.
