Off the beaten path.

The hotel restaurant, just a few days ago.

"My friend here is wondering if you're local," said my boss's mom. "I'm gonna let you tell her yourself."

I glanced over at said friend, then threw her a smile. I had spoken to her just minutes before.

"So, my dear, are you local or aren't you?"

"Yes, ma'am. I am. Born and raised here in Kuching," I responded.

"See? I told you but you didn't believe me," boss-mom chimed in.

"Wow, I thought you're not from here. You speak English like Queen Elizabeth," the friend added.

I've had people comment on my English before, but that was the first time someone said I speak like the Queen. I couldn't help but chuckle.

***

The hotel courtyard, on the same day.

A lawyer from the nearby law firm came to have some drinks and catch up on some work after-hours. Her colleague joined her some minutes later, and we chatted for a while.

"I'm sorry, but I didn't get your name," she said to me.

I gave it to her.

"Wah, you cakap macam orang putih lah," said the colleague.

A smile, then another chuckle.

***

The beachside property, yesterday.

An English family came to check the place out. They're currently living in Brunei, where the parents both teach English at an international school.

"Did you study overseas? Your English is superb."

Like so many times before, I told them I watched way too much TV when I was a kid. X-Men, Transformers, G.I. Joe--you name it.

"You should teach. We could use more people like you."

***

So, yes. How's that for motivation?

Hello, TESOL!