The Importance of Language

I'm considering becoming a full-time professional interpreter, because it simply pains me to witness bigotry caused by a language barrier and, well, bigots.

Long story short, I was translating for someone at the IRS office when he got escorted out by security for using a cell phone to obtain information that the IRS required. He didn't speak a word of English and thus couldn't have read the no cell phone sign. And he sure didn't understand why the IRS receptionist rudely pointed at the sign and even more rudely shouted at him to get off the phone. He did get the gist when she started just staring and pointing at his phone, and shuffled off to another area of the room. But apparently that was not good enough, and she promptly called security to escort him out. All in about a minute. I actually did translate and tell the guy that no cell usage was allowed, but he probably couldn't hear me over the receptionist's loudness. She KNEW he couldn't speak English either because I specifically told her that I would be interpreting for him and have done exactly so. But no. Won't give the poor guy a freaking chance or even ask me to tell him.

Lesson learned, I will look for whatever rules in the venue and translate as soon as possible. Ultimately though, the Houston IRS office needs to hire a receptionist who understands that her actual job is in customer service.

On Being Social

Driving back from my nightclub gig tonight, I realize that I genuinely enjoy socializing now, not even in a I need to promote my photography sort of way. Although it is a nice cherry on top. On a sort of related note, red bulls are so not conducive to correcting my unfortunate sleeping schedule.

Not all socializing is rewarding though. I was regrettably reminded of why I dislike run of the mill parental type Chinese people. I picked up my boss' niece today from the George R. Brown convention center. And zomg, that girl was so ridiculously rude yet didn't know it. She was there for a CFA exam, and told me that during lunch break she tried to socialize and be "subtle" towards a fellow foreign tester with really "messy" hair. Money quote translated from Chinese, "Are there no combs where you come from?" Damn. Aren't Asians supposed to have tact? Then she proceeded to ask me what I do and where I live and how much my apt. costs. I'm actually fine with providing all the info, but talk about 势力眼. Then she sort of casted me aside as a lowly grunt and demanded that I take her to Fiesta for some grocery shopping, to which I unhappily obliged. =(

Reading back on this post, I realize that I elaborate more on my negative experiences rather than positive ones. I need to change that and remember good things more.

Yelp

I started writing reviews on Yelp since I use it so much and eat out a lot. It's also mad synergy with my goal of taking a camera with me everywhere I go. "The best camera is the one with you." So true.

wanjun.yelp.com. Check it out.