just smile and nod

One of the worst things about being foreign is those awkward conversations with people who haven't quite caught on yet that, no, you are not from these parts. These often led to moments where you feel like a huge winner. The worst part of it is, you actually think in the beginning that this could actually end well for you. The German in question says something general, that, surprise! you understand, such as, "the weather is nice today" or "this elevator is moving really fast." WIN. You pull out your mental sharpie to put another tally in life's victory column, but then you realize, you have to say something back to that...and unfortunately all you got is "kweeks train [hand to forehead, fingers extend]" and "ja..." Usually the latter makes more sense. Replying, however, is a fatal mistake: you've engaged the German and now they recognize you as one of their own. The next line isn't so easy to tackle and all you can make out is "esch haaet aeier erschleimen lutigung agetet." Unable to ascertain whether this is a positive, negative, something you have to use actual words to respond to, or another language, you stare, put on your most awkward smile/half grimace, and slowly start nodding your head. Eventually the elevator doors open, the German exits, thinking, "is that kid dumb in the head?"