Learn a Foreign Language!

As a foreign language major and having traveled internationally, I am an advocate for people to learn a language other than their own native one.  The benefits are tremendous yet many Americans don't understand why. 

In the USA, there has been an increase in language usage other than the English language in everyday exchanges.  For example, we have seen an increase in the Hispanic/Latino culture.  Many lawn maintenance crew and other blue collar workers speak Spanish. 

French is a fun language, and I attribute my learning it to Julia Child's tv show.  My dream was to go to France and go to cooking school.  Signing up for French was a thrill...then came studying and mastering it.   It was a struggle to learn the language, and unless you are immersed in it, it is no wonder Americans have a difficult time learning another language.  I studied hard and persevered.  Studying abroad helped sharpen my French speaking skills.  It was neat to learn about the culture, the history, and the people. 

As a military wife, I haven't had the opportunity to PCS internationally with my husband.  He's traveled extensively and admits he wished he knew another language.  For most military wives, it behooves you to learn another language.  Our navy friends loved being stationed in Spain and gained an understanding of the Spanish language.  Now back in the states, they are enjoying this ability to speak with the new wave of Spanish speaking people.  A former boss studied Russian and served in the military.  He rarely speaks it but gained an understanding of the language and culture that he enjoys to this day.  One enlisted man who spoke arabic helped my husband purchase a nice gift while overseas.  Being in the military is fun because you gain exposure to other languages and cultures.

Today's world is more international where you are able to interact with internationals easier through less costly means of communication.  By understanding other languages, you understand other cultures and other people of this world.  Who knows, perhaps one day we will all converse in similar dialogues and get along better...but until then, it's a neat time to study and learn a foreign language.