I took one semester of Spanish. It just didn’t click with me. Even though it’s pretty low on the language difficulty level, I simply did not have/create the proper environment to learn the language.
Environment makes a huge difference, as does passion for learning a particular language and culture.
Then I moved to China in 1998 and spent four years studying Mandarin Chinese. I did not know a single person in Kunming city, and I only had a small background on the daunting language. With one semester of Mandarin behind me, I could say 你好 hello, 再见 goodbye, and 卫生间在哪里？where is the bathroom? The important stuff!
I immersed myself in the culture and language, forcing myself to learn. Within months I began picking up the tones and nuances needed to communicate. It came to me fairly easily, of course, that with a lot of hard work and hours spent practicing. That however does not negate the fact that, yes, Mandarin Chinese is way up there on the “hardest languages to learn” bracket.
I speak English, Mandarin, Tagalog, and am now learning Thai—another tonal language, this one with 5 tones. Easy, right?!
My point: if you’re a missionary (or anyone for that matter. I simply speak to those within my own niche field), you can learn any language if you put your mind to it.
Here’s a few tips for language learning from TEDx speakers:
- Chris Lonsdale: How to learn any language in six months.
- Sid Efromovich: 5 techniques to speak any language.
- Patricia Kuhl: The linguistic genius of babies.
And here’s a few more free tips:
- Commit yourself to the language and culture.
- Create an environment for learning.
- Speak, speak, speak, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes.
“A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.” Step forward with intention and you will be well on your way to success—even if you need to flail your arms and use a little body language to get your point across. Because the reality of most cross cultural situations require a bit of body language.
Of this you can be sure: signs and wonders will follow. You’ll sign and they’ll wonder!
Whether you need to learn a language that is easy or hard, you can do it.
And missionary, please remember, it will enhance your future ministry in tremendous ways, so don’t give up!
Leave a comment below if you have any questions or thoughts about language learning.
