LANGUAGE: MORE THAN JUST WORDS

Every morning I walk my two youngest to the bus stop and wait with them until the bus arrives. There's an older gentleman there dropping off, I assume, his granddaughter. We say "hello's" and "how do ya do's" but he doesn't speak much English and I don't speak Spanish so it doesn't get much more than that. For the past week there's been a new mom there in the morning who speaks Spanish. They talk and talk, it's fun to hear the language and pick out the very few words I know of Spanish. Mostly I just smile politely, we still say "hello" and then "c-ya" as we walk away.

However, today I way thinking about language barriers and how they hinder our understanding of each other. People looking for conversation to fight the boredom of waiting for the bus. Yes, I would be fine left alone with my thoughts. It's early and there's the day to think about. But time goes faster with conversation. If this grandpa could share his story with me, what would he share? What would I share?

Then of course I started thinking about the larger spectrum, the world. How would the world be if we didn't have language barriers? There could be less misunderstanding when one doesn't understand the context or culture. Would there be less anger, less war?

I believe the world is beautiful because of it's diversity; different cultures, languages, colors, beliefs, landscapes, what makes up a family, etc. We need that diversity, I don't like the thought of a world without it. But how do we get past that language barrier where there's so many different languages?

Yes, I could branch out and learn a few, but there are so many. I can't help but wonder if we could understand each other better would there be a decrease of war and hatred?

That is what it comes down to...understanding. If we try to understand each other more, rather than jump to conclusions, maybe the world could get along.

I'm sure there are things people do that we will never understand. But there needs to be a level of compassion and respect for different views on how to live life. Sometimes I get tired of the attitude of "it's the American way." While I think America is a lovely place to be, I also realize there is a vast world out there and we are but a small part of it. Face it, Americans do not always know best. So why do a lot of Americans feel that way? Do we not branch out and try to understand other cultures enough? I think there are many who open their mind, and understand.

But is it enough?

I believe that no matter where you live, how you were brought up, or how you choose to live your life, it is important to find understanding and let go of judgment. As for myself, I will seek out compassion and understanding for others so I may fill my heart with love, and live a life of happiness.

-Becky