Learning a new language is a different kind of experience than anything I've encountered before. Never before this summer have I been the minority, the one who doesn't speak the language, who doesn't look like everyone else, who doesn't understand most of the words spoken around her. Don't get me wrong, I am genuinely and completely enjoying it, but at times I realize just how exhausting it is! The constant concentration and feeling of "being on your toes" drains you more than you would think it does. Even when speaking English, we have to be intentional about using simple words and sentence structure so that our Thai friends can understand.
Now before I sound like a huge complainer, I have to say that it really is a lot of fun! The feeling of accomplishment is amazing when I am able to converse a few sentences with someone who only speaks Thai. We are taking Thai classes from an incredibly patient, wonderful lady, and our vocab is growing and pronunciation is improving. It is an important goal of ours to learn and use as much as we can. Sawatdee kha, phuan dichan! Chan rak khun le chan kit-tuung khun. :)
If you've never been to Thailand, you really should come. The people here are amazing!
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