I learned English from action movies. I wanted to sound tough. So I stopped a stranger to ask for directions. Me: “Don’t move.” (I meant: excuse me, one second) Him: “Okay— okay, stay calm.” Me: “Give me everything you’ve got.” (I meant: please, tell me everything you know) Him: (hands me his wallet) Me: “...and the watch.” (I was only admiring it) Him: (hands me his watch) Me: “Now. Where is the station?” Him: “Take the station! Take the whole city, man!” I gave it all back. He cried. We got lunch. An American will hand you his life savings, then apologize for not having more. Greatest country on Earth.