You’re such an inspiration….thanks for sharing your story. I don’t think many can begin to comprehend what it’s like to learn all you did with zero technology tools that exist today….

Although I must say, I was listening to a podcast that talked about how when you’re immersed in a new language and it’s the only thing you are exposed to and you need it to survive—you will learn it at such a fast pace. My husband has been living and working for 4 years in Mexico, knows perhaps 50 or so words—doesn’t speak it. The technology of Google translate, plus the fact that so many know English and converse with him—took away his need to learn. Granted he’s older and has no desire—so that is perhaps the bigger issue.

You painted the true “lost and painful” experience that will inevitably make you learn a new language.

You write so fluidly, authentically and beautifully—it’s difficult to not see you as one who wasn’t raised speaking English.

😀😀😀