Friday, February 18, 2011

Second Nature

Learning a new language, well trying to at least, takes a ton of time.  It can be frustrating and rewarding, similar to a big jigsaw puzzle.  (This is not a great reference since I hate puzzles.  You build the puzzle then put it back in the box, useless if you ask me).

I study everyday.  I also try to use Korean as much as I can.  In such an English friendly place as Seoul it can be easy to just use my native tongue.  However, using the locals is great practice and a must when trying to improve.  I have noticed some leaps in the last few weeks.  At first a new language sounds just like garbled up noise, especially languages such as Japanese, Korean and Chinese.  As you progress in your understanding and your vocabulary builds things start to click.  The pieces start to reveal themselves and you begin to see the whole picture, (key word is begin).  You start with the basics, letters, sounds and simple words.  It feels like an impossible task but as you build your knowledge it does get easier and things do not seem so foreign. It is just like a light bulb turning on and you get it.

Now there is a big gap between communicating to fluency.  I can communicate, no problem, with most people in Korean.  However, without context, slowed speech and someone willing to not speak in slang I have problems.  I can understand my kids in school much better than the adults.  The adults speak so quickly in normal conversation it can drive you bonkers.  You feel as if you are grasping at straws.  It does drive you to keep going.

I am going to grad school here.  It is not a decision I came to lightly.  I miss my friends, family and home.  If I do not take this grad school opportunity I know I would regret it.  I am going to miss so much.  I am missing some of my best friends weddings, new additions to my family, and all the little things that gave me such a great life back home.  I only hope the strain I place on these relationships strengthens them. 7000 miles away and 14 hrs. time difference is a burden to say the least. This blog is my attempt to keep all those I miss at home in my life at their convenience.

I hope you all keep reading and get skype if you can.  I enjoy your smiling faces.

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