ASK AMY

Dear Amy: I am married to a wonderful man from another country. We go to his home country to visit family at least once a year.

They make me feel welcome but soon end up reverting to their native language.

It makes me feel left out and ignored. I have voiced my feelings to my husband. While I understand that this can be habitual because it is, of course, their first language, it hurts my feelings to be sitting in a room full of people — ALL of whom speak English perfectly — and be purposely left out.

I am thinking of having him travel alone this time. Do you have suggestions? Left Out

Dear Left Out: It is understandable for people to speak their native language when they are in their home country and talking with other native speakers. How did your husband cope with this alienation? He learned English!

Make a concerted effort to learn your husband’s language. Until then, you should ask, “Oh, please, can you speak English? I don’t want to miss anything!”