I have been thinking about the many people I know whose first language is not English. As a middle-aged woman who only took Latin in High School, I greatly admire my bi and multi-lingual friends.
This is one of my favorite pictures, as it is my parents surrounded by their dear friends from Burma. When my parents met them at the airport, English was a foreign language to them. Now, many years later, they speak well and write beautifully. My parents immigrated and were once in the same space, where English was a foreign language. Between my parents and these dear friends from Burma, there has always been empathy and understanding. It has been a beautiful thing to witness and a privilege to be a part of their unfolding friendships.
I wonder if you know people for whom English is a second language. Take time to affirm them and comment on the courage it has taken over many years to stay faithful to their task. Tonight I came across this, and it reminded me just how complex our language can be. My admiration is never-ending for those for whom English is a second language. I will forever admire your commitment and tenacity!
