Coming from a relatively small town in Minnesota, I only had to speak and understand one language: Minnesota Nice. Here in Naples, you can find yourself in conversations with someone from California, Maine, Mexico, North Carolina, New York, Texas, Georgia, Panama, Italy, Germany, Japan, Bolivia or Sweden, 

Spanish, Creole and French are common. If English isn’t your mother tongue, be proud! I admire folks who can speak two or more languages. Whether it’s a clerk in a store or someone you meet while walking your dog and they aren’t comfortable speaking your language and vice versa, don’t panic. Speak slowly and clearly and use simple gestures. Smile. Be patient and trust they will be patient with you. 

Most pets, especially dogs and cats, seem to have no difficulty in communicating their desires to us. Let’s look to their example of being persistent in conveying their needs. But if you want to go for a walk with a new friend, don’t bring them a leash.