DEAR ABBY: I agree with your answer to "I Speak Spanish in New Mexico." Why are some people in this country so determined to speak another language in front of other people, knowing that it could be considered rude?
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For this country to be united, we need to be able to communicate with each other. A common language makes sense, and I believe that all individuals in this country should use a common language. Individuals, organizations (such as religious organizations) and the government should encourage this. There are problems in this country that are difficult to solve, but this is not one of them.
If I moved to Mexico, I would learn to speak Spanish if for no other reason than to show respect for that country. If you live in the United States, please learn the language. -- RICHARD WATSON, PORTLAND, ORE.
DEAR RICHARD: I suspect that many people who speak a foreign language in the presence of those who do not understand it are ignorant of the fact that they are being rude.
A common language brings people together. Historically, learning English was a priority for German, Italian, Russian, Chinese and Japanese immigrants (to name a few) because it helped them participate in the communities they joined. And because the United States is still predominantly an English-speaking country, that practice should continue today.