Feeling accepted

That really depends on you and how rigid you are.  The fact that you are trying to quantify the experience of exploring a new culture and putting time limits on it suggests you may have a difficult path ahead.

I'm very easy going and have no rush in doing anything.. I do not like pressure and love to learn other cultures just wondering if a guy from Minnesota that's retired can live there in peace and a not have a time limit . Tranquil and happiness is what I appreciate most.

These kinds of questions are like asking how long a piece of string is.  Each piece of string in different.  If you are easy going, peaceful, tranquil and happy where you are, then you will probably be the same person here.

I am that my friend, always relaxed but also very cautious

Yep, it takes a long time to learn any language. Depending on how much you need it, the faster you will pick it up. It certainly helps to begin chipping away at getting a solid foundation in Thai literacy. As for the do's and don'ts . . . that depends on who you are hanging out with. Exercising respect for your host nation and using good old common sense is a step in the right direction, I think. Understanding what the flag symbolizes helps to give perspective in a broad sense. One step at a time -- usually. Leaps and bounds -- more rare, but it happens. Best,  dcb

Language takes as much time, as you are ready to dedicate for it! But defineteley, it's easier to learn all cultural details, "do not" and "can do", what is impolite and how to be polite with locals. You better make friend with Thai to learn this with them, some things you will never know from foreingers or by yourself (like its extremely rude to point with foot)