Now accepting questions...

I just came back from what will be my last 'proper' day at work, another not-so-gruelling day on the line, and a quick hosing-down of the kitchen, to end the day. I will be working on Sunday, when it is Mother's Day in the USA, but my job on that day will be mainly supplementary, as the entire kitchen staff will be present, sweating it out on the line.

Most Of the Restaurant knew I was leaving, but as I made it clear that Sunday will be my last day, I noticed a rather strange shift in the temperament of those around me. People who had not exchanged a complete sentence with me over the past four months came over to ask why I was leaving. People who I did converse with on a regular basis, fielded questions, ranging from personal to just stupid. Some of them are reproduced below, with as much fidelity as permitted by memory.

Q: Why are you going back? Do you hate white people?
A: Er, No, Not particularly.

Q:How far is India?/How long does it take to get there?
A: well, to put it simply, it is halfway across the planet/About seventeen hours by the shortest flight.

Q: Is India a rich or poor country?
A: Define 'rich' or 'poor', but in general, yes, it is what could be called 'poor'

Q: Is India Clean or Dirty?
A: Well, It is rather dirty in places, but pristine in a few.

Q: Are there roads in India?
A: Yes, in most places, but not as wide and smooth as they are here. Plus, we drive on the left.
Q: You drive?
A: Er, Yes. Cars and Motorcycles are pretty commonplace.

Q: Are you really from Pakistan/Afghanistan/Iran/Iraq?
A: . . . . . . . . . . . . . No.

Q: Do they cut off your hands if you steal something in India?
A: Well, they break each of your fingers according to the value of what you may have stolen. (A pause. Sarcasm is exposed by my laughter) no, we do not. We have an Independent Judiciary, based on the British system of Law.

Q: What language do they speak in India?
A: There are twenty-two official languages, plus hundreds of local dialects spoken across the country. Depends on what state you're in.
Q: You Middle-Easterners sure speak a lot of languages, don't you?
A: Um, India is not located in the part of the world known as the Middle east. India is in South Asia.

Q:(Surprise Question!) Were you affected by the Tsunami?
A: Yes, Our Islands were terribly hit, as well as the eastern coast. I used to live quite deep inland.

Q: Does everybody have 3 wives?
A: Not that I know of. It's technically legal for certain sections of society, but nobody really marries 3 wives.

Q: Are you married/Do you have children?
A: HELL NO!!

Q: Will we ever see you again?
A: Never.