Hey out there in Chinese Pod land. I have lurked in the shadows for quite some time now and have on many occasions felt a need to respond in the comment section about one thing or another. I was not a paying customer at the time, so I felt I should keep my mouth shut. Anyway, that has changed, so here I am. If I missed it, I apologize, but to “bum” something comes from the term that is used to describe a person who had no money or visible means of support. Sometimes they were called transients, hobos or bums. For all of you who might know the history of the great depression “brother can you spare a dime” is a famous leftover saying from that era. That being defined I first have to say to the Chinese Pod team that I think you are doing a great job. Jenny-if all native Chinese speakers sounded like you, English just could become my second language—oh well. For a native Chinese speaker to have a grasp of the idiosyncrasies of the English language gives me hope for myself and that of learning Chinese.
Ok enough sugar, now the vinegar. This is the second time that I remember smoking has been a subject that generated so much angst. The first was with Aric and the “Saturday Show”. I am amazed with the amount of hyperbole that is generated over this subject. I think “Smokers” have been paying the price financially and socially that comments in a learning environment are inappropriate. We understand “smokers that is” the problems real and imagined with regard to smoking. The lesson has nothing to do with the merits or detriments of smoking. It was only to provide a vehicle on which to apply the grammar and vocabulary for asking for something as a favor. If you “non-smokers” are bothered so much I suggest you make up some placards and protest in downtown Beijing. I am sure your message will come to the attention of people who can make a difference.
Posted on: Bumming a Smoke
January 15, 2008, 01:36 AMHey out there in Chinese Pod land. I have lurked in the shadows for quite some time now and have on many occasions felt a need to respond in the comment section about one thing or another. I was not a paying customer at the time, so I felt I should keep my mouth shut. Anyway, that has changed, so here I am. If I missed it, I apologize, but to “bum” something comes from the term that is used to describe a person who had no money or visible means of support. Sometimes they were called transients, hobos or bums. For all of you who might know the history of the great depression “brother can you spare a dime” is a famous leftover saying from that era. That being defined I first have to say to the Chinese Pod team that I think you are doing a great job. Jenny-if all native Chinese speakers sounded like you, English just could become my second language—oh well. For a native Chinese speaker to have a grasp of the idiosyncrasies of the English language gives me hope for myself and that of learning Chinese. Ok enough sugar, now the vinegar. This is the second time that I remember smoking has been a subject that generated so much angst. The first was with Aric and the “Saturday Show”. I am amazed with the amount of hyperbole that is generated over this subject. I think “Smokers” have been paying the price financially and socially that comments in a learning environment are inappropriate. We understand “smokers that is” the problems real and imagined with regard to smoking. The lesson has nothing to do with the merits or detriments of smoking. It was only to provide a vehicle on which to apply the grammar and vocabulary for asking for something as a favor. If you “non-smokers” are bothered so much I suggest you make up some placards and protest in downtown Beijing. I am sure your message will come to the attention of people who can make a difference.