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.