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Dane Benko's avatar

"At the lunch where this conversation took place, it was agreed, by a larger group, that these words were true. American border guards are the worst."

This reminds me of when I had some issues at the London Gatwick airport, I basically didn't have the entry papers prepared, and a flustered border guard snapped, "How do you not know this, you're American, you have the most onerous border entry process in the world!" to which I smiled and said, "Well yeah, I'm American, so I don't really have to deal with it." I could tell that took him back just s little bit but anyway then we finished the paperwork and I passed through.

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Charles Schifano's avatar

It is notable that there are so many similar stories—the perception seems to be widespread. Thank you for the comment and story, Dane.

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John P. Weiss's avatar

I hope the young lady has a positive experience on her trip. As for the border representatives, can’t say I’ve experienced them other than international airports, where I had no issues. Disappointing, though, if they are as you describe. I wonder what that is a reflection of? Hubris? Low quality candidates to hire? Fatigue? Institutional culture of negativity? It would be interesting to interview someone in the organization about this unfriendly demeanor and hear what they have to say.

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Charles Schifano's avatar

What's interesting to me is that the social perception quickly becomes the truth. My sense is that this is a commonplace opinion internationally, which makes it become true whether or not the facts are true—and it certainly would take some time and effort to change those perceptions. And all of your potential causes seem reasonable to me. Thank you for the comment and those questions, John.

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Trilety Wade's avatar

Your essays are packed, twisty-and-turny, and yet still so powerful and coherent. It's like boarding a train without knowing the destination but assured you'll love it. I have way way more thoughts but want to keep this short and just let you know that i hope you continue to write with such beautiful purpose.

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Charles Schifano's avatar

Thank you very much, Trilety. That comments means a lot—I really appreciate it.

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