The mantra of an American in Britain: I'm ok… I'm ok… I'm ok…

2008 December 17

by yankeebean

As an American woman in Britain, I’m constantly saying in my own head – “I’m ok”.

Whenever I speak a little loudly and people turn to look at me like I’m a 10-car-pile-up — “I’m ok”

Whenever I walk up to someone, try to shake their hand, and they pause as if wondering if I’m contagious — “I’m ok”

Whenever I laugh loudly (or normally, as I would call it) at someone’s joke and they’re eyebrows twitch ever so slightly – “I’m ok”

I’m actually thinking of having a t-shirt made… anyone else want one?

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http://www.blogiota.blogspot.com Iota

I’d prefer one with “I’m ok” over one that had “I’m good” on it.
pacificyorkshirebird

Yes – I also say “I’m ok” outloud when asked “you alright?”

May I also have a t-shirt that says “I can smell your cigarette from all the way over here.” I always think that when someone is smoking within 100 yards of me. I don’t think they know how far that smell travels.
http://www.shesnotfromyorkshire.com peacefulyorkshire

maybe people just look at you funny because your a breath of fresh air… and its just unexpected….??

But, yes, I constantly have to keep myself “ok” and accept that I am American and just do things MY WAY. And thats OKAY!
J

This made me laugh because my boyfriend (from England) is constantly asking me if I’m ok.
Alex T

I stumbled across your website by accident and have enjoyed it immensely. But I’m afraid I don’t understand the situation over “ok”. Is it something Brits just don’t say? Is it offensive over there?
http://www.shesnotfromyorkshire.com peacefulyorkshire

Hi Alex–
oh I can see how confused you could be..
Here in Britain, people say “Are you ok?” as a greeting which translates to “How are you?”.
If you don’t know the translation, you might be annoyed. When I first moved here I wanted to say “Why, don’t i look okay?” I am FINE!
Hope that clears things up… if not, maybe you just need to be in Britain to understand the context…;)

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