Thoughts on Language Learning

Reflections from Jan 2010~

Learning language is like building relationships; in both you need to take it slow and see the details around you and take slow steps learning all you can as you go. We must allow the process of learning to grow step by step. There needs to be room for mistakes and we need to let go of the fear of failing. There is grace in learning. The people here are being patient, and seem to be patient to see yet another learner seek out the culture through study language and culture. 

 This week we studied many examples of how Indonesians relate with one another. Any subject we study we need to remember how strong the cultural foundations are in understanding why people do what they do. The people here are hospitable and kind. Strong and soft spoken eager to help others in the community around them. Somehow I think the strength I see in the Indonesian people must come from the deep relational ties found in community and harmony. So as a newcomer I see them eager to see me learn and an anticipation of the day I truly understand the people and the culture that defines so much of who they are. 

IMLAC Pilates..these guys are great friends too!

I learned I need to be careful as I seek to communicate with Indonesians. I need to have the sense of otherness they have when they interact with others. I need to honor who they are by addressing them with a genuine smile and polite nod and maybe a title or name of honor for the station in life they have earned. I need to see beyond the moment and my desire to communicate and observe what is being communicated to me.