Why Learn Languages 8/24/23

 




Several people have many different reasons for learning new languages, whether it be for their resume or to have better memory. Everyone has their reasons. Personally, for me, I decided to learn different languages to better connect with my family and friends. Maybe it's just me, but when I see my parents speak their mother tongue, they look so happy. So comfortable with themselves. I have always felt ashamed that I could never make them feel that way. Until this summer when my sister and I decided to take a Khmer reading and writing class together and it was wonderful! It was nice to formally learn my native language. Not only did I learn to read and write ( at a very basic level) I was also able to understand and reconnect to my culture. I was able to find an amazing Cambodian community that I didn't even know existed. I am hoping that by learning Japanese I can relive that experience again. Since I also work at the Nelson we get folks who come from all over to see the art and the more languages I know the better I can help them and make them feel comfortable and safe. In general, I am just excited to have another way of meeting new people! 


Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Katakana

Image
  I am glad I finally know why the Japanese language has three different alphabets. Hiragana is meant for native Japanese words while Katakana is for foreign words. If I remember correctly, Kanji is from Chinese characters that have been adapted into the Japanese language. Despite knowing all of this I still have difficulties telling Hiragana and Katakana apart ( I know I am so ashamed! I promise I will do better! ) Hopefully, as we continue on during the semester the difference between the two will become more apparent. A bit more practice and I am sure this will change! So far I am noticing that Hiragana is more rounded and much more natural to write down to me. (The curviness of the characters reminds me of Khmer in a way)I think I might prefer writing in Hiragana for now.  While katakana is more angular, sharp, and a bit rigid for me to write. But perhaps I’m just not used to writing these characters yet. ( I haven’t built muscle memory for the letters yet). I plan on doin...
Read more

Japanese Business card

Image
 Unfortunately, I don’t know much about business card culture in Cambodia or Vietnam since I’ve never been to either ( very sad, but I hope to go one day). However, what I have observed from watching my parents ( they own a restaurant for reference) is that they mainly just talk to people rather than give business cards. From what I have noticed, Japanese business cards seem to be very simple, formal, and straightforward. Which I think is very fitting for them as they are known as a kind, yet reserved and polite group of people.  Whereas in America business cards have a lot of emphasis on being unique with a goal of showing off their personality to the viewer through their card. This reflects American society well in my opinion; as most Americans value individualism. Usually in America, no two business cards look the same (at least that is what I observed on Google. I think this is especially noticeable in small business accounts. ). While making my business card I noticed mos...
Read more