What Did You Say?

Walking around Key West a few weeks ago, we heard a wide variety of languages among the shops and restaurants. The different cadences, accents, and pronunciations created a fun challenge to determine the heritage of the diverse visitors represented there. I have always been fascinated by language despite being a math guy, or maybe, because of being one. This has been acutely brought back into focus with my son and daughter-in-law moving to Berlin. The trip to Florida and a desire to travel overseas this summer inspired me to explore learning German through Duo Lingo. Between working on greetings and naming foods, my mind is slowing recognizing the subtle differences in combinations of consonants and vowels.

Simultaneously with my German pursuit, I also started using the Sound ID tool on my Merlin bird app. In my backyard or out in the woods, I have been recording the songs and conversations between previously unknown feathered friends. Now, with the magic of technology, I have found that we have northern cardinals, white-eyed vireos, and red-bellied woodpeckers all around us. I am in awe of the intricacies and diversity among the chirps and chatter.

It struck me that I have been trying to learn multiple languages at the same time. While these two situations maybe seem miles apart on the surface, there are some amazing similarities:

·       Listening is crucial.

·       Intentional focus is required.

·       A deep desire to understand another culture is needed.

·       A little daily interaction adds up to greater comprehension.

·       Looking for patterns and structure helps build a foundation for understanding.

·       The more I learn, the more connected I feel.

Every relationship requires us to learn the language spoken by the other. When we are from different countries, communication can be problematic unless we work to bridge the gap. Even when we speak the same language in terms of words and sentences, we still need to make sure that what we are trying to communicate is understood. And if we pay close enough attention, we may find that everything on the planet is telling us something important in its own way.