Let's talk 'LOVE'

No, I'm not writing something romantic because it's Valentines' Day tomorrow.  In fact, it's about something else altogether.

You see, the English are an affectionate lot of people.  Why do I say that?  It's because wherever you go, you are called 'love', 'darling', 'sweetheart', 'sweetie' etc.  Words of affection.  You get the picture.  Be it the vegetable seller from the market or a cashier at the supermarket.  I've been here long enough but can never quite get used to it.  Or should I say feel comfortable about it.  Come on.  They are all strangers.  Why would they want to call me 'love'?  I don't know you, ok?

It's the local culture.

Yesterday I was at Asda.  The cashier at the till has to be the most affectionate person I'd ever met.  'Hello, my love', 'How are you today, my darling', 'Do you need help with your packing, love', 'It's £__ my love', 'Thank you, my love', 'Goodbye, darling and have a nice day sweetheart'.  Every sentences she said all ends with words of adoration.  She gave me the goosebumps alright.  Even my own hubby doesn't say those things to me so frequently.  I know we Asians are more reserved but I think it can get a bit too much sometimes.  I don't love these people.  I don't even know them.  Why would I want to call them my darlings or sweethearts?

Hmm.....but I can get used to hub calling me that though.  Happy Anniversary.  Like you said 'Wah Kow!  It's been 14 years already?!'