I've recently met an American girl living in my neck of the woods Pretoria, from Mississippi. She mentioned once that one of the hardest things about moving to a new country is that you feel like an idiot, most of the time. Let me provide an example; it has to do with washing machines. In the USA washing machines are very straightforward, dummy proof. A 3 year old could set it up. Abroad...its a different story. My washing machine's dial for example has ticks, not numbers, and no further explanation! Now what am I supposed to do with that? So suddenly a simple thing like throwing your clothes in for a wash ends up leading you to the brink of a nervous breakdown. Additionally, the first week I was here I ended up breaking the washing machine door handle because I didnt wait 20 seconds after turning it off before trying to open the darn thing - yes, you have to wait until IT allows you to open it. Can you imagine? What cheek! Anyway, its those types of experiences that can really throw you into spasms.
Fortunately, I have now learned to use the washing machine and the world is again at peace...
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