To Imitate: A Parakeet Gets Her Wings

World Cup shenanigans

(Yes, parakeets talk and imitate as well as parrots.)

I am a great imitator. It's one of my most useful qualities. I put this quality to use here in Brazil as I imitate my surroundings. When I first arrived in Brazil, I needed to find a way to survive linguistically speaking. Like a parakeet, I found myself repeating the last part of what someone said to me. It helped me to have something to say, to give some kind of response, and also as a way to learn by repetition. Chirping away without any inhibitions, I imitated how these Brazilians communicated. Greeting every person in a group is a must, whether you just met them briefly or kind of recognize their face. Turns out, this should be common sense as it shows a level of respect for every individual regardless of class, race, or hairstyle. It's fun for me to adapt to the Brazilian way by imitating their lifestyle. Eating rice and beans every day is normal and delicious for me now. I learned how to cook rice and beans as well. I'm convinced that's why their skin glows.

For me, the first step of adapting was to imitate. But now that this parakeet can communicate here in Brazil, how does she stay true to her own rhythm? I believe it's easy to get lost in a crowd, especially when that crowd is foreign. I have found taking a step back and carving out some personal time away from the rest of the world can do wonders. Like that, I can balance trying out the Brazilian way and yet staying true to the Maggie I know. Indeed, it makes for a great flight.