Over the years, I have tried to pick up as many languages as I can. Although it is hard to retain, the majority of the time, you don't lose the understanding of it or forget what made it special. If you don't use it, slowly it will go away and speaking becomes difficult. But, I've found that to this day, I can decipher what is being said.
My passion for learning has never ceased.
Now I'm not saying I become fluent in every language, but words stick with you. It's just something nice to have and many people don't appreciate it.
Even if I learn a few words, I'm happy.
Since I was young, language was constantly in my life whether I liked it or not. I was first taught Portuguese by my family, in which I am fluent, thanks to my parents. I was always forced to speak it at home. At the time, I didn't understand why it was such a necessity.
Today, I am grateful I have the language. Not only because it's useful in the workplace and life, but also because it has become a part of my personality. I wouldn't be me, without my Portuguese language. It adds different perspectives, ways of speaking, and an entirely unique culture to my identity.
In school, Spanish was mandatory. At work, it is especially helpful.
When I went to High School, I wanted to change it up a bit and learn some French. I took it for about four years and learned a whole lot. When I went to Canada (in the French cities), I was so excited. It didn't stop there. I ordered food in French, I understood posters, and sooner than ever I was falling in love with new music!
Then came College, in which I am currently attending, and I chose to learn Italian. I had the best professor! Senora was the kindest person ever! She truly made sure that we engaged and allowed us to immerse ourselves into the Italian culture!
I meet new people all the time! I've picked up some Greek here and there, some Sign Language for a customer of mine that I like, and even recently some Russian!
Now that's a lot to retain! But I love it!
A language is a form of communication, a way into a new world of people, and is a barrier if no one attempts to cross it!
So try to truly appreciate a language if you're learning it because you only realize it's value later than you should. It is truly something magical.
