Every grown adult should learn a second language

[smittenbyu]

For the fun of it, I decided to take up Spanish classes. I find myself cheating a bit since I have some basic understanding of Italian & French (I lived in Italy and took Spanish in Middle & High School) - mind you, I haven't actually spoken either of those languages at length since I left Italy and finished high school, respectively. But it's helped to memorialize Latin word roots in my head.  

It's only been 3 classes - once a week and it's not necessarily a language I need to survive - I am there to learn something new. To converse with my colleagues who are predominantly from Central & South America, for my interest. So, every time I am in that class - I hear in my head the phrases that get thrown to the immigrants, "learn English!" And my heart goes out to them. 

If it were only that easy. I spent half hour doing very basic Spanish homework. I spend two hours in a classroom trying to think in a completely different language. And I am left exhausted. 

I of course, knew it wouldn't be easy. I can easily switch between Telugu & English - not exhausting at all - I grew up with it. I am able to now switch up English-Telugu-Hindi. But taking Spanish is really challenging. Clearly as adults it's much harder!! yeeks. 

But I think to sharpen one's mind, we must pick a new language in adulthood. It's a brain workout, indeed! And as a bonus it teaches some empathy! 

Comments

[low_delta]

I agree. I had three semesters of Italian, in my mid-twenties. I never learned it well enough to hold a conversation, but I miss it. I recently decided i want to learn Spanish, but I'm not sure how I can. My brain isn't set up for it. I realized I learn in a very academic sense. I understand what the words mean, but I kinda have to think about it. I never really absorb them.

[smittenbyu]

yes!! Same here - I am going to these Spanish classes and feel if I don't actually immerse myself in the language, it will be rather pointless! :( Language is only a language if it's used to communicate! :)

I am hoping the Guatemala trip will help kick start for me. I do have multiple calls a week with colleagues who are native Spanish speakers - they would love to know i am learning Spanish. But I know, it will be hard to ever hold professional work-related conversations! Got to try!!