The fact that I speak different languages and I have not used my mother tongue on a daily basis in over 20 years is such an integral part of who I am. I don’t think much of it any more.
But sometimes statements like that of EU Commissioner Leonard Orban make me stop and think.
I was delighted to read on his blog that “languages are crucial bridges between cultures. To learn a new language is to explore new ways of thinking, new value-systems and to open our horizons to the richness of other cultures and ideas.”
But I was even more ecstatic about this part :
“Each of the many national, regional, minority and migrant languages adds a facet to our common cultural background.”
And I was so happy to hear Benedict XVI mention in his New Year address that Italy should get used to having classes with pupils of different nationalities in its schools.
Finally!!!
Is something changing? Is a new wind blowing?
Having learned four languages over the years has certainly helped me to relate to other people’s realities and ways of looking at the world.
If I think of it… If I were only speaking Italian, I would not be able to communicate with some of the most important people in my life.
I am so grateful to my father for drilling English into me at an early age and to my German teacher in high school… Where would I be without them?
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