So...What Do You Do?

As a male expat it is inevitable that you will get the question, "So, what do you do?"  The assumption of this query is that as a male it is your job/position/career that has plucked you and your family from your homeland and placed you in this new and exciting environment.  In the majority of cases the assumption is correct, but as always there are exceptions.  I am an exception to the rule, it is my wife's job that has brought us across the ocean.

While it is understandable when people make the assumption it is the man's job that has brought you overseas it can certainly be annoying.  The question for the male trailer then becomes "How do you respond?"  Personally I have come to expect the question/assumption thus taking away the surprise; much like going to a doctor for a shot,  you know its coming and it may not be pleasant but you can deal with it.  Secondly I describe our situation.  Upon understanding the circumstances the inquisitor often changes expression from bewilderment to one of "approval."  Lastly, I am not here to please others.  My job is to take care of my family in the best way possible for whatever situation we are in.

in short you know the question is coming.  Don't be surprised and have a pleasant response ready.  It is you and your family that matter and not the opinion of others.  Remember that there are others out there like you and you are not the first, last or only one going through this type of experience.