Have you ever met a foreigner who said or did something you found highly offensive, yet they were clueless? Cultural differences are all-too-common, however, by learning a foreign language and expanding your interest in its culture you will broaden your point of view of others. Hence, it will also aid you to rid yourself of barriers preventing exciting possibilities.
You don’t have to travel abroad to discover a new world. Just learn a foreign language. With the wide array of technology available today – TV, radio, audio and video tapes and Internet downloads --you can immerse yourself in a foreign culture almost instantaneously.
In many cases, learning the basics of a foreign language will equip you with enough skill to experience the pleasure of traveling to the land of those speaking it. In many urban areas it's common to find a great number of the population is fluent in a secondary language, such as English. Although you don’t have to actually travel to explore another culture -- chances are you’ll want to -- once you increase your interest and knowledge of its language and customs.
Many cultures believe that their customs or traits are the right way and the best way. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. The customary beliefs and traits of cultures differ greatly--often leading to misunderstandings. Exploring a foreign culture will lead to a better understanding of its people, and you will realize that it is only different, not necessarily a inferior way of life.
Consider some differences in cultures that can lead to confusion. In the western world it is considered respectful to look into the eyes of someone you are conversing with, however, in other cultures this same practice would be considered a sign of disrespect or aggression. Another example is how cultures differ in their view of time. In some cultures punctuality is of primary importance, whereas others are very relaxed about their view of it. However, both views have their rewards. With a little interest and effort you can better understand the characteristics that so uniquely identify the culture of the language you’ve learned.
An experienced traveler who moved to Chapala Mexico from the US summed up his experience as the most wonderful way of life, with friendly and hospitable people who would do anything help the foreigner out. In his opinion, it was one of the most desirable places to live and had some of the most beautiful weather in the world. Yet, most agree, it is a very relaxed way of life.
What benefits will you personally enjoy? While traveling abroad and exploring the many sites unique to its culture--you’ll now see their world with different eyes and with heightened appreciation. For instance, while visiting a museum, your enhanced skill will help you identify art and artists representing their culture. When visiting a restaurant, perhaps you’ll have the pleasure of ordering your meal in your newly acquired language. By embracing a new culture you’ll receive many benefits, and you will now have something to give in return--understanding.
An internet resource is www.Free.ed.gov, a site which lists free resources for learning foreign languges, and also offers information on various countries. Start discovering a new world now!
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