International Languages

Laughter is the international language, so they say. But do you know what else is? Sneezing. I can be in a restaurant in the middle of Vietnam, but when I hear that hachoo from across the room, I know someone is expelling irritants or allergens from their breathing passages. I know-- because I've been there, man.

So, I catch their eye, and with exagerrated movements, I mouth the words: "Blllesssss Youuuuuu." Then, I nod to them with a peaceful smile.

Mute English is not an international language, so they look at me pretty strangely. But I think deep down, they know what I mean, and they appreciate my words.