People Share Cringe Stories So Bad, You’ll Want To Disappear Forever

 

She Didn’t Want A Hug 

When we assume things, they often backfire. This is especially true regarding someone with a completely different background and culture from us. When the OP was in Thailand, they got to know a friendly woman who spoke very little English. When they were leaving, she reached her arms out. The OP assumed they wanted a hug. Instead of asking, they went ahead and wrapped their arms around her, even though in Thai culture, it’s considered impolite to hug someone. But she wasn’t gesturing for a hug, she was gesturing to pull the cord on the ceiling fan to turn the fan on. Imagine making that gesture, only to have someone wrap their burly arms around you. That’s beyond awkward. At least it was moments before they were leaving, so they never had to see her again (via Reddit).