Unlike in Japan, where I was obviously a foreigner and no one ever asked me anything, people here in Germany sometimes ask me stuff. Normally, these situations induce a moment of panic, but I've had some proud moments recently.
Two weeks ago I was at the German DMV getting my international license, and a guy asked me (in German) where the restroom was. I said, "Es tut mir leid, ich auch suche" (I'm sorry, I'm also looking). Not necessarily helpful, but at least it was a suitable response.
Then today, I was on the bus, and the lady next to me asked (in German) if the bus stops at Siegfriedring.
Not only did I understand the question (though I don't remember her exact words), but I was able to fashion a correct response: "Ja, Friedenstraße, und dann Siegfriedring." Then she said "Danke schön" and I replied "Kein Problem."
These constitute significant victories for me. I've been here three months, and already I've leveled up to "extremely limited functional proficiency in certain, very specific circumstances."
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