The Extraordinary Kindness of Strangers

 Am I good at reading legalese in a foreign language? No.

Do I understand the intricacies of setting up a bank account as a foreigner in a 2nd language? No.

Am I speedy at knowing what to do when it is in my turn in line. Hard no.

But for all the all the taxi drivers, cashiers, civic employees, waiters, and random folks who have taken the time to offer up help far and above what is required or the norm...a hearty thank you. You inspire us to work harder and learn faster and be kinder to others.

So many people have done exactly that. Gone above and beyond what is required or even normative.  This first happened in the Spanish consulate before making our move to Spain. We had failed spectacularly with our perspective visa paperwork but the consulate employees were so patient. They took the time to make sure we understood, helped with the forms and helped us navigate the the legal intricacies of the Spanish immigration system. 

The extraordinary kindness of strangers has continued in this grand adventure in Zaragoza. We live in a city. The people have the typical brusqueness common in most cities I have visited everywhere. Yet people take the time to help us in a way that is extremally kind.

• The woman at the bank spent two days with us helping us set up an account, secure insurance and make sure we knew how to use the online banking system and the phone app. The teller made a snarky comment about our level of Spanish and the woman helping us leapt to our defense and  gave us full credit for trying. 
• The lady at the fruitaria who gave me advise about saving the credit card receipt from a purchase due to the occasional malfunction. She leaned in very conspiratorial when she told me but it was also like she was counseling a teen with their first card. 
• The waiters who recommend items and chat with us and give us advice on great places to visit in the region.
• The teachers and classmates who have offered to help us sort out random paperwork and applications.

Maybe we are so childlike in our ignorance that we bring out the parental instincts in strangers. I really cannot say. But I am appreciative.