Groups > Tough Questions & Answers

Hi Toby,thanks for sharing. This was a thread to express insights and that would be great, but when someone tries to turn it into a individual issue, making it personal, instead of sharing insightful ideas and only such, then it is not insight but insult that occurs. Thank you for your insight and others who have added here. I fully understand the point between the personal remarks, I have to say that it was my hope to create thought and hear what others think, not submit my typing skills or imply that my opinion was bias or otherwise. I was strictly seeking what others might share regarding a growing problem. I never said it was my opinion while I thought it would be beneficial for others to learn the language spoken in that country.

Yes, there will be different opinions and I welcome that.

Yes, I think that the issues connected with poor language skills can flow over into other areas and have affects outside of my world, and on local spending, healthcare, employment, housing and more.

Yes, I am aware that communication even among those who are proficient in language skills, can still get confusing and lost (just read the posts on this thread)and local slang and dialect will create difficulty, but not prevent communication like a total lack of the language does

No, I don't have all the answers or insights therefore I posted the thread in hopes of gaining some from those who wish to share insights not personal issues and insult

No, it wouldn't be the first time I learned something or changed my view based on the insight and wisdom of others...isn't that what it means to learn?

No, I don't think that anything can be resolved from slinging mud or finding blame, as blame doesn't solve the problem, and rather distracts from the real issue.

Now, I have posted to make clear my views here and you don't have to agree or you may. Either way I hope that those participating in the thread will/ have learned or shared some wisdom for all of us.

I have very much enjoyed the thread otherwise. My thanks again for those who participated.

...oh yeah, I checked for typos :D

Thanks Rosie for your insight...I like the ideas you suggested. I have no wish to see people struggle unnecessarily (or be deported.) I wish those coming into the USA to have the same opportunities I have. Having been in the Dominica and having little knowledge of the language, I learned quickly how dependent I was on those who did.

I am learning Spanish too. I feel I will not only benefit personally, but it will be of great assistance to those whom may seek my services. I am all for making things harmonious, and good communication with the client is important. There are more spanish speaking in my area then any other and I admit, I cannot speak every language and therefore hope the client does have workable skills for communication.

eve123 good for you in learning spanish it is a great language! The food is good the language and music so romantic.Have you ever listened to the song from the colombian singer Elvis Crespo titled: SUAVEMENTE i love that song he sings about how he wants her to kiss him often with passion slowly and profoundly wow he can sing to me anyday!

Well, isn't this convenient. I'm moving to yet another country next summer and this time I dont know the language beforehand. But as it is, I am going to study and learn at least the basics before I go and hopefully learn a lot more in there.

That is country number 4 in my life. Going to be an experience!

Gita Risa congratulations to you in having the opportunity to go to another country and being able to experience their food,culture and also learn they're language. I will be learning the greek Language soon so I can relate. Have fun and ask questions.

If you expect to share in the American experience, than obviously, you must speak the language to some reasonably communicative level. It's just common sense. If you cannot speak English, our native tongue, then how can you benefit Americans? The problem here is one of giving and taking. We don't need more menial employable persons. We need more sophisticated prospects. We are in a mess and not speaking our language only perpetuates it.

Rosie,thank you for the encouragement, and no, it isn't easy but I am willing to do it and grow. Not familiar with that one, but will now check it out.

Gita, how exciting! changes are not alway easy, but what a new adventure and eve you admit here you will familiarize yourself with the language and do your part to be able to take advantage of the opportunities that come. Good for you! Hopefully you will still visit us here on tbd.

Michael, like many here, I value your insight and sharing. I believe that learning languages are good for everyone. I think that in choosing to live in an area, you should be willing to do your best to be a contributing member of that community as well. When traveling, it seems we Americans have had the luxury of knowing "someone will speak English there" and that is very true. Many countries do share a knowledge and skill base to speak some aspect of English. This is not always the luxury others have visiting or living here in the USA. Hospitals hire interpreters and so on, but I do think if you live in a place you should do your best to learn the language. It may very from place to place but a basic foundation for emergency purposes or contributing I feel would be of great assistance to all.