Why Learn New Languages?

Each people deserves to choose what to do in life. In fact, we have our own hobbies because we have freedom. One of my hobbies that are not so common is my fondness for learning languages. I find that learning another language can test your self-discipline and your humility. But is it worth the effort? Personally, I would say yes and many people would agree. But how?

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WHY DO IT?

When I was young, the very first language I have learned is American Sign Language (ASL). It's not strange though because I grow up witnessing my father as a signer and a speaker for the deaf.
In our religion, I have also used this opportunity to tell the deaf about God. They too deserve to know. I know that a deaf person’s world may consist of just a handful of people he or she can communicate with, but people really appreciate it when I tell them that I learned ASL in order to teach the Bible in their language!

The next language I have learned is Chinese Mandarin. It's not that I am really expert but I can communicate a little using that language. Unfortunately, I stopped practicing and speaking using that language for almost 5 years now. That's why I kinda forgot some of the vocabularies of Mandarin. But I still can recall the basics and I'm planning to go back on what I have always loved to do — learning languages.

I also spend few times learning Spanish because most of my ancestors are Spaniards and I want to learn their language.

So the bottom line is, many learn another language because it’s a required part of their schooling. Others have a personal incentive. For example, some learn Koreans because they wanted to go to South Korea and meet their idols.

But does it come without struggles? Absolutely not.

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WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES?

Learning a new language isn't easy. At first, I thought that it was just all about learning how to say a new word but in reality, it definitely involve learning about their cultures and way of thinking. You also have to learn to laugh at yourself because you’ll make lots of mistakes. But that’s part of learning.
There are no shortcuts in life as some says. And that's definitely true about learning a new language.

There are also times that you find it hard to inculcate in your mind even the basic vocabularies to learn. But that's okay. That just simply means that you're on your way to success.
If you can deal with setbacks​—and the occasional embarrassing mistake​—you are more likely to succeed in learning another language.

But here's a tip: Don’t despair if others seem to make faster progress than you. The Bible says: “Let each one examine his own actions, and then he will have cause for rejoicing in regard to himself alone, and not in comparison with the other person.”​—Galatians 6:4.

WHAT ARE THE REWARDS?
The benefits of learning a new language are many. It can make you more confident and proud about yourself. It can widen your opportunity for more friends. And if you're the type of person who loves volunteering, then that's also an advantage of learning a new language.

“The greatest reward is finally being able to communicate with the people whose language you’ve been struggling with. That’s when you realize that all the time and effort you put into studying and practicing the language was worth it!”​—Jessica.