The path you've walked, from focusing on rote memorisation and grammar rules to discovering the joy of self-expression, is a testament to the power of language as a tool for growth and self-discovery. It's heartwarming to hear how writing has become not just an academic exercise but a genuine source of fulfillment and connection.
I am always so impressed how writers like you can write when English isn't your first language. It's hard enough for native speakers like us. I love this line- "telling them in English felt less judged and exposed, as if my second language protected my stories with a shield." I'm not fluent (yet!) in another language, but I can understand this! Keep going!
This is a wonderful story of wrapping oneself up in an adopted language and making it one's own. Beautifully written.
Thanks, Steve. I love the term "adopted language". I've never thought of it this way before, and I think I'll start using this going forward.
You have clearly made it your own. I am a career EFL educator, and I would not flag you as non-native. You write beautifully.
The path you've walked, from focusing on rote memorisation and grammar rules to discovering the joy of self-expression, is a testament to the power of language as a tool for growth and self-discovery. It's heartwarming to hear how writing has become not just an academic exercise but a genuine source of fulfillment and connection.
Love this! Proud of you Yuezhong. Let’s reconnect on LinkedIn
Thank you!
I am always so impressed how writers like you can write when English isn't your first language. It's hard enough for native speakers like us. I love this line- "telling them in English felt less judged and exposed, as if my second language protected my stories with a shield." I'm not fluent (yet!) in another language, but I can understand this! Keep going!
Thank you, Jenna. I always learn a lot from your writing :)
Wonderful essay.
Thank you, Betsy, as always! Hope all is well.
Can your post be read publicly? I want to reference it for a essay I'm writing.
Hi Marilyn, this post is public. Feel free to share/reference it.