[Gocamino] Translating

[Ana Young]

Rosina's description of translating on the Camino
brought a smile to my face, reminding me of one of the
many times I was called upon for what is for me a
normally pleasant task. 

It can be taxing, I understand Rosina's frustration.
She must get it a lot. My own Spanish isn't perfect
but no matter: anyone who hears you speak it will ask
sooner or later, guaranteed.

One time in Pamplona I was walking alongside the main
post office when a very tall German pleaded for some
help. He needed to send stuff home because he realized
he didn't need to sleep out every night after all. He
had heard me chatting with my friends and would I
please accompany him inside to get his stuff sent?

He had with him nothing less than the kitchen sink.
After standing in line I had to indicate to the postal
clerk the sizes of three different boxes. Then, when
he couldn't fit everything into the boxes he had
chosen, we had to go back in line to get another one.
Then, of course, I had to keep asking prices for
different weights, etc., ... ad infinitum.

Between clothing, bedding, kitchen utensils and other
paraphernalia ... he had enough to settle in a private
room for six months, or so it seemed. Then he started
cursing quietly because he kept bumping into doorways
and people ... he was so tall and broad-built, with
that enormous backpack and tent with the outside frame
...

He seemed so much more frustrated than I that I felt
sorry for him and stayed until he had everything
mailed.

He offered to buy me a coffee afterwards. I said I
didn't drink coffee, a tea sounds nice for me so let's
sit down and take a good, well-deserved breather ...

Live and learn. I mark it down as among my more
amusing encounters. Next time I may just pretend total
monolingualism -- something I can get away with very
easily ;-)

Buen Camino to all!
Ana


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