What a McDonald’s Cashier Taught Me About America
A light-hearted immigrant story that starts with culture shock and ends with something deeper
Dear Duniyawaalo (People of the World),
When I moved to the United States 25 years ago, I did not expect to learn life lessons at a fast food counter.
But some lessons do not show up in books or research.
They show up in the most unexpected places.
Like Erie, Pennsylvania.
In winter.
With snow taller than the cars.
When I first arrived, I was trying to learn everything I could about American culture.
I watched Friends. I learned to say “baseball” instead of “cricket.”
And I told myself: blend in, fit in, figure it out.
So, one day, I walked into a McDonald’s for my first solo American meal.
I thought I was prepared. I had rehearsed the order in my head.
Everything was going smoothly until the cashier looked at me and asked:
“Here or to go?”
That one question broke my brain.
I had no idea what she meant. I froze.
In that moment, I was no longer in America. I was in limbo.
Am I supposed to leave?
Am I supposed to eat here?
Is this a test?
Do I win something?
That tiny moment led to a small panic spiral and, eventually, a surprising realization.
About cultural differences.
About freedom.
And about what it really means to belong in a place that once felt foreign.
A few weeks ago, I was invited to perform this story live at the iconic Steppenwolf Theater in Chicago as part of 80 Minutes Around the World.
It was my first time on that iconic stage.
And when I stepped off, I knew this story was no longer just mine.
It belonged to anyone who ever felt out of place.
Anyone who has ever struggled to adapt.
Anyone who found meaning in the messy, funny, awkward parts of life.
I just received the video recording. You can watch it here:
If you have ever been confused by a simple question…
If you have ever felt like an outsider trying to understand the script…
Or if you just want a good laugh and a warm ending…
This story is for you.
Let me know what stayed with you.
And if it makes you smile, feel free to share it.