Podcast 16 Learning a language

Good day! Welcome to Blabbinit.com. This is Missy from southern California. We hope you have had the opportunity to enjoy all of the benefits from our website. Please take advantage of the different ways that are offered for you to practice your English. Reading the words with the podcast is a great way to practice.

I am now getting used to the daily routine of life here. I had a wonderful time in Peru and I can't wait for the next time that I can return and explore more parts of the country.

The thing that I really liked was that I was able to practice my Spanish. I am far from fluent, but this trip forced me to use the language. I have to admit, before my trip I would do anything that I could to avoid using it. But now my fears are much less.

A few days after I got back, I went into my favorite restaurant and ordered some chicken, rice and french fries. I ran out of ketchup and needed some more. I went to the guy, who makes the food, who speaks Spanish, and asked him for more ketchup, in Spanish, without even realizing it and without any fear. I think that once you reach the point where you aren't afraid, then the real learning begins.

I realize now that they won't laugh at me for trying. They actually like it. I think that when we learn a new language we are worried about our mistakes, but we don't realize that the other person is listening to the content and not really each word that we say.

When I listen to someone that is learning English, I don't listen for their mistakes. That is the amazing part of our brains. It just takes the information and changes it to communication.

Today, I went to buy a coffee at a local mini-mart. I was in line and there were some men buying some lottery tickets on the side. One of the guys looked at me and just started talking to me in Spanish. It was strange because I don't look like I would know the language. It was amazing though because I totally understood him and I was able to have a conversation. That made my day!

Learning a language is a challenge but very rewarding when you see your improvement. Keep going and don't give up. Keep practicing. Remember, practice makes perfect. Don't be afraid. Remember, no one is judging you. Most people will help you. Smile and laugh a lot and enjoy the learning process.

Thanks for listening to the podcast today. Don't forget to visit our website at www.blabbinit.com . Thanks! Bye bye!