이번주 강의 ― Annie's Mailbox

[조국현]

Annie's Mailbox의 문장이나 단어는 평이하지만, 저널리스트가 아닌 일반 미국인들이

일상생활에서 쓰는 표현들을 고루 담고 있기 때문에

영작이나 영어회화 자료로 훌륭합니다.

쉬운 단어라도

나라면 이 자리에 이런 표현을 쓸 수 있는지 고민해 보고,

그럴 수 없는 표현이라면 내게 중요한 표현이고 익히는 것이

진정한 영어의 활용능력을 기르는 방법입니다.

시사영어가 세상에 대한 분석력과 이해의 폭을 넓게 해주는 멘토라면,

Annie's Mailbox는 중요한 생활영어 표현 이외에도

Annie의 통찰력 있는 충고를 얻을 수 있어서

토론과 설득력을 위한 훌륭한 멘토입니다.

영어 활용능력도 기르고

삶의 지혜도 얻을 수 있는 칼럼인 Annie's Mailbox,

저와 함께 감상하시죠.

No appetite

Dear Annie: Every year, we invite our extended family for the holidays. Last year, we had our nephew, "John," and his wife, "Jane." John is a terrific, lovable, normal 30-something. Jane, on the other hand, is not nearly as normal. For example, John removes his coat after arriving, but Jane keeps hers on for the entire visit. John participates in the conversation, while Jane shies away from talking.

Dinner, however, is the strangest part. We have never seen Jane eat a single bite. She doesn't even pretend to eat. She simply places her napkin on her plate.

At first, we thought she was a germaphobe, except we have been guests in their home for meals and Jane does not join the guests at the table. I once found her alone in the kitchen with a plate of food. When I asked her to come into the dining room, she replied, "the dog likes my company."

Do you think she has some fear of eating in front of other people? How can we make her more comfortable in our home? Is this something we should be concerned about? — Worried Relative

Dear Worried: Jane seems to be suffering from a not-uncommon social anxiety disorder, which is a fear of being judged by others or embarrassed in front of them. It likely stems from an incident in her childhood. If she is willing to examine her fears, she may be able to overcome them. Some people have found success with behavior modification, hypnotherapy, counseling and/or medication. If you are close to your nephew, suggest that Jane discuss it with her doctor. John also can get more information through the National Institute of Mental Health at 1-866-615-MIMH(6464). Beyond that, please don't make an issue of this. She intends no offense.

Arrogant husband

Dear Annie: I have been married for 25 years. When my husband and I go somewhere and have to walk from the car, he always walks in front of me. I feel like his servant. I have told him I hate it and to stop, but he continues.

What is up with this disrespect? How should I handle this? — Following in His Footsteps

Dear Following: Most men have longer strides than women. In order for your husband to walk by your side, he needs to slow down to a pace that apparently does not feel natural to him. Still, it's rude and inconsiderate not to make the effort. The next time you get out of the car, ask the King of England to assist you, grab his arm, and don't let go until you reach your destination.