This is the America I dream of.

Woah, hold on. There's something here.

It's a business transaction, sure. But the social interaction, while to us seems like sarcastic exaggerating, is humorous complimenting. In order to do that, it has to be language you can use frequently and honestly.

This is doing wonders for his mental health, likely because part of his thoughts are "what could I say to make ME feel more complimented than that." He's actively using positive self talk unconsciously.

It takes confidence to prop others up like that.

The aggressive compliments are one of the things I’ve always appreciated about middle eastern cultures. Does it feel silly if you aren’t used to it? Of course. But it’s just nice to be around and enjoyable to reciprocate

Ok, where do I find an emotional support iraqi corner store?

During one of the lowest ebbs in my life, I subconsciously and unknowingly sustained myself simply by buying one extra dessert (ice cream, chocolate, something sweet and inocuous) for the doormen at my building. This small act of human bonding would give me enough energy to face tomorrow without dreading it, and little by little I was able to dig myself out of a deep hole.

The point of this parable is, do not underestimate the value of human connection! A very small act may turn someone's day around and that energy is reflected back to you in droves.

Old middle eastern lady called me habibi once in a checkout line..

Still think about that sometimes

These are the kinds of relationships I want with my community. This is beautiful.

99.9% of wholesome posts do nothing for me. This one had me smiling. Amazing.

I love this, my quick stop guy smiles whenever I walk in, but he doesn't speak much English. I'd love to get him pistachios

This is so wholesome I can't stand it ahhhhhhh!!!!!

I swear first generation immigrants are the nicest people. So much charisma

Is that some kind of eastern or muslim-aligned thing, or maybe have something with a climate? In western Russia you sometimes meet (mostly elderly) caucasian dudes from eastern parts and bordering countries who talk a little like that, while natives seldom talk at all besides what's needed. Is that some shared cultural custom in the region?

I kinda like that.

My dad has an Iraqi guy who cuts his hair and my dad is so loyal to him. He always talks so highly of him and will never go anywhere else. Its extra funny because he's always hated getting his haircut and seen it as an annoyance.