I got a call yesterday from Amy, a co-worker from the office. She and I work in the samedepartment . We've had lunch at work a few times but I really didn't know her that well. I was really glad she called.
Kevin: Jeff: What were you and Richard talking about earlier? It looked intense .
Lucy: Yeah, Richard said something to me that I didn't appreciate .
Jeff: Oh, no. I know how insensitive he can be. What has he done now?
Lucy: He asked me how long it took me to learn English.
Jeff: But, you were born and raised in California!
Lucy : Yeah, but I get that sometimes. It doesn't matter how many generations my family has lived in the U.S., we'll always be foreigners in their eyes .
Jeff: What a racist ! How can you stand working with the guy?
Lucy : You know, Richard isn't such a bad guy. He made the comment out of ignorance , not malice .
Jeff: So, what did you say when he asked you how long it took you to learn English?
Lucy: I told him 28 years. And, he knows I'm 28 years old since I just celebrated my birthday last week. He was puzzled for a minute, and then he got it .
Jeff : Are you sure he really got the message ?
Lucy: Yeah, I'm pretty sure since I then asked him how long it took him to learn English.
Jeff: That's hilarious ! What did he say?
Lucy : He said, "36 years," and we both laughed about it. He apologized and now, it's all good.
Jeff: I'm glad. I bet he won't make that mistake again.