appreciate

i was on the phone at work, the other day. my officemate and her assistant were sitting across from me. the person on the other side of my phone had just said they'd give me a big break on a hotel room i was booking for the tech rep coming in next week. i was grateful. before hanging up, i said, 'thanks so much. i appreciate it.' i hung up. both girls burst out laughing, glanced at me, looked at each other, and doubled over. i asked what was up. clearly, it had to do with me. 'everyone in the office laughs at you! you say you appreciate it! we indians never say that! it doesn't make any sense - appreciate?! you talk so funny. hahahahaha!'

i have to admit - it pissed me off ... don't tell me how to speak my own language!! that was not a good india day.