Que?

Que? is a a question I ask A LOT here in Spain. It means "what?".  I often have absolutely no idea what a person is saying to me. It is very frustrating and confusing trying to order, or ask directions, or just ask a question with a language barrier. I probably should have learned more spanish before living in Spain for a semester, but I've gotten by so far. I just had this crazy thought about what it will be like going home and not having a language barrier anymore. I've noticed on weekend trips that I often add in Spanish phrases that have become natural for me, like "por favor" and "gracias" even in countries where they don't speak Spanish. I realized that when I'm back to a country where they speak English it's going to be difficult to speak. Yes I speak english here with everyone I can, but sometimes when I'm speaking to a stranger I speak very slowly even if they speak perfect English. It's weird to think about going somewhere and being able to ask questions and understand the answer! I have definitely taken for granted the ability to communicate! I never knew it was such a privilege, but I am really glad I am able to communicate in America.  For now though I'm doing alright and it's become normal not to understand what anyone is saying on the metro, or in stores or restaurants. I've gotten really good at tuning voices out because I can't understand them anyway... Eavesdropping on the metro would probably be really entertaining, but here it's all jibberish to me!