Today, I was approach by an elderly Chinese couple while boarding, and after asking me if I were Chinese, the grandfather began to ask me for directions on how to reach ’XX Rd’ – in Mandarin. I managed to pick up on what he was asking about (it helped that he had a map with him) and began to give him in a reply in my shaky Mandarin, and you know what? They understood me!
So, I while I was conversing with them, liaising with the bus driver and fellow passengers about where the road might be, I couldn’t help but feel this huge send of incredulity that they could understand what I was saying. For those who know me, Mandarin isn’t my first language. While I take classes, I've always have that irking doubt about whether I would actually be understood.
So. Am feeling over the moon right now. I managed to speak (somewhat) effectively in Mandarin, and also help someone through having this skill! I feel so glad that I knew a bit of the language, and was able to help them. Getting the chance to talk to them and meet so many fascinating people in the process was so amazing.
Like wearing the t-shirt, languages enables us to form a connection with other people. Communication leads to connection, and with connection comes understanding. Imagine if we could all speak the langauges of the the world. Like what my physics lecturer said, it would be 'way cool'. :)
Like wearing the t-shirt, languages enables us to form a connection with other people. Communication leads to connection, and with connection comes understanding. Imagine if we could all speak the langauges of the the world. Like what my physics lecturer said, it would be 'way cool'. :)
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