I came to Argentina with one goal in mind: Become fluent in Spanish. However, I quickly realized that this goal, is not attainable. I have taken 6 years of Spanish classes, and had multiple conversations, multiple tests, worksheets, and accidental misunderstandings, and after being here in Argentina for 6 weeks, I realize that the word “fluent” for me implied a mastery of the language; as if somehow there was a magic point where I could understand everything, and express myself effortlessly.
After being here, and witnessing my Spanish improve greatly, I’m left to analyze if I have become “fluent”. As I reflect upon if I have achieved my goal, I realize that this view of language is completely incorrect. There is no time where Spanish will be effortless, because I have realized that language is effort. Even in English I struggle to express myself, I struggle to understand what other people are saying and thinking. Communication itself, the action of thinking and defining what we feel and what we see is an incredible challenge for everyone in any language. In the same way, it is a great challenge for all of humanity to listen and understand what someone else is thinking, feeling, and saying. To expect that my brain will reach a point where it’s not a challenge to express myself is a naive view of language.
So I have abandoned the idea that there’s a black and white linear process that occurs when learning another language. Everyday I learn more, everyday as I experience and feel life, I better my skills of expression in Spanish, and in English, as well as writing, singing, or dancing. They are all different ways to take what is inside of me and make it into a physical action of saying a word, writing a sentence, singing a note, or moving my body to the rhythm.
Learning Spanish has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. To find hundreds of new words, new ways, to say what I mean, is as much of a learning experience about myself, as it is about another culture, and other people. I now have this ability to say things in a new ways that more people will understand, to express myself differently. It’s all a mess of expression, y me encanta!
Emily
Reblogged this on Argentina Blog.
You have discovered the most important thing you could have about language. As English speakers we continue to expand our vocabulary and understanding of our own language over the span of our lives and when studying a second language, we’re like children again with a limited vocabulary and understanding of the language. Yet through study, through immersing ourselves in the culture that speaks our new language, through practice, we take more steps toward fluency. It’s rather like moving through the grades in elementary school! Celebrate all that you’ve accomplished and learned and continue to embrace the study of your new language throughout your life. Michele
Emily, I am so glad you have had such a beautiful experience here. Have a wonderful 2 weeks, and I will see you in class when you return! Keep making beautiful music everyday!