The chance to talk with people in their own language, giving them the opportunity to express themselves with the words they know best, is one of the most rewarding experiences I've had abroad.
On Saturday and Sunday, I had a chance to meet with a Flemish political group in northern Belgium. Belgium, like Luxembourg to the east, is a multi -lingual state.The official languages of Luxembourg are Flemish (like Dutch), French and German. Many in this Flemish political group feel a sense of discrimination because they are native Flemish speakers rather than French speakers. They experience frustration with their government because they don't see their needs being met; and some even want to form a separate country.
During this meeting I chatted with local leaders about the issues they were facing in their community and also about the challenges they face as political leaders. I thought, “I started learning Dutch nine years ago. And here I am, chatting with local city council members about topics most important to them.” In that moment, I was grateful I hadpersevered through moments of doubt and discouragement and dedicated years to learn this language.
I have never been very good at learning languages.
