learn a new language

And I think it’s because my mind is considering everything that could be involved in a trip to a little village, including the language spoken by the people of the location I will decide upon, and the importance of learning it should I wish to communicate more effectively with them. It gives this goal a purpose again, and I think that is partly what I need to achieve it.

The idea behind the trip to a little village can be read about here: http://www.43things.com/entries/view/3716813

It’s funny because this is something I would like to do but it seems to be less of a priority without a real purpose, which I suppose makes sense. Still, it has always been a personal interest and goal, and it would be nice simply to gain that knowledge and could be helpful in the future, whether for travel, volunteering, work, etc.

I also came across Icelandic language courses online which could be very interesting. I have heard it is a difficult language to learn so it would be a challenge but I also like that it is a language less widely spoken. And I do hope to visit Iceland one day. Most speak English there as well, but it would be nice to show interest in their language and be able to practice while there.

So all in all, I think this is a goal that can wait to make room for other priorities, but it will be nice when I can mark this one as done. :)

An ad for a potential job position states that Spanish would be an asset. If I were to secure this job and have a steady income again, I would definitely look into taking the Spanish course I was considering. It would be nice that in addition to being a personal interest and goal, it could also serve a purpose. There is one that begins October 15 but I think the November 12 start date would be better. I will let you all know. :)

I thought I would check out Meetup.com, a great website that allows you to find or start a meetup according to a particular interest, to see what might be available in terms of groups practicing the Spanish language. I did come across one I may further look into, and will continue my research.

I just discovered an online course that could be interesting. The next one begins September 17. October and November start dates are available as well. I will take some time to think about it and will let you know if I decide to enroll!

I am not sure which language I will ultimately end up learning, but the two I have considered most are Spanish and Japanese. I really like the idea of learning a language in the country itself (though that isn’t always feasible), and being able to practice in daily life while there. I have looked into this for Spanish courses, and have looked into local courses as well.

I suppose I haven’t done this earlier mostly because I don’t know where or what I will use it for, and how I would exercise the new knowledge at home (if I were to take a course abroad). If I took a course locally, I suppose there is a chance I might stay in touch with some of the people I met there and be able to practice with them. I’m sure there are also groups organized to help people practice, and if there aren’t, one could be created.

I think Spanish would be one of the more practical languages to learn as it is one of the main languages in the world (though funny enough, I come across more who speak Italian!). I am fortunate to already be bilingual (English and French), and I think my knowledge of French would be a helpful base to learning Spanish.