How should I carry myself?

I've been going to Portugal every summer since I was born. I've explored the entire country and I love it however, there's one problem. Each year I've been getting picked on by oh you know, those European kids who spike up their hair, wear tight jeans, pumas, and tight tee-shirts that have misspelled English words on them. They yell pathetic things in broken English at me such as "Biaaatch" or "Stoopid". It's actually quite funny when I start speaking to them in perfect English. They speak Portuguese, so do I. They speak French, so do I (Usually, these kids have Portuguese blood but live in France and come back to Portgual in August) What bugs me though, is how when I yell at them in English, what do I say? I hate cursing them off because that shows them my temper. Besides, cursing does nothing. What do I say to them? How can I bruise their egos? I don't look for trouble... they give it to me. Any tips?

How should I carry myself?

Viva Matt!

Sigh....Why do the Portuguese do that?? I love Portugal, too, and *most* Portuguese people...but stupid people are everywhere, no?

I limp (literally...I walk with a limp). I'm also tall and elegant, so I attract attention. Stupid people, however, are seemingly unable to entertain the 2 notions of elegance and lameness at the same time. Simplesmente n鑼玱 cabem na sua mente parva. So I get my share of stupid comments and antics: grown "men" actually mocking my walk, for example. !

You know how, in elementary school, boys might punch a girl whom they like? Think of it that way. Obviously, these kids are attracted to English but don't know how to express it in a mature, respectful manner.

One way to respond is to disarm them. I would politely ask, "I'm sorry...I couldn't understand what you were trying to say." Coopt them. You could even, depending on their physical proximity and on the level of politeness you're able to muster, teach them a new word.

Sometimes, when you raise your expectations, people actually do rise to them. I've often had positive results with this technique.

But I think that the best technique is the following:

If you're not able to approach them as fellow human beings--sometimes it's hard--just find the humor in it and laugh--a sincere laugh--and continue down your path (in life) because you have much better things to do than to engage them. You're still disarming them (just not coopting them), you're still avoiding the stress of losing your temper, and you've come out ahead because you've had a good laugh for free, without even having to break your stride.

How should I carry myself?

Viva! (This is a 2-parter.)

Are you familiar w/_Don't Shoot the Dog!_ by Karen Pryor? It explains how to apply principles of behavioral training, not just to dogs, but to lower forms as well ;o) And even ourselves. Report It

How should I carry myself?

Even when we're unable to change our emotns, we can change our reactions/behaviors. If we're sad, we can sing; if angry, we can laugh. The behavior, in turn, helps change our emotions.

Tenta e ver璋﹕ ;o) Boa sorte! Report It

How should I carry myself?

If you're really big try a crane, otherwise maybe a wheelbarrow will suffice.

How should I carry myself?

Hasn't anybody ever taught you to "be the bigger man?" Just smile and say "Have a nice day," or "Pleasure meeting you too." At least it would confuse them . . . . If you're an American, please just be a good example for other Americans to follow while they are overseas, even if just for my sake - I hope to visit Portugal one day and I don't want them to completely loathe Americans by the time I get there. Thanks : )

How should I carry myself?

Yikes. Tell them they are just jealous you live in America and not in a apiece of crap!