Learn Another Language--Who, Me?

I ran across an article by Kris McLeod on Associated Content the other day called, Why Not Learn Another Language? After my first, "Who, Me?" reaction, I began to agree with the author. Why not me?

After all, many U.S. citizens live within short driving distance from the Mexican border, and could, in a matter of minutes or hours, be surrounded by non-English speaking individuals. A second language might come in very handy, especially if that second language happened to be Spanish. I'll admit taking a year of high school Spanish, but I'm pretty rusty at it these days. I wonder if you can order a refresher course from some of these places that teach languages? I'll have to check them out and see.

Besides being close to a country that speaks a language that is foreign to many Americans, the chances are that you live near, or encounter a Spanish speaking person in your day-to-day activities. Wouldn't it be great to learn some basic Spanish words and surprise those people the next time we see them at the mail box, or behind the counter where we shop, or just sitting next to them on a bench in the park while we watch our children play?

Check out the Associated Content article HERE for yourself, if you have any desire to add another language to your ability to communicate. Just imagine going up to your local librarian and asking where the books written in Japanese are shelved. You may end up the talk of the town.

And, don't limit yourself to Spanish. I just mentioned that, because it would be the most useful language to me. Look into German, French, or, as Ms. McLeod's article suggests, a language that would allow you read early religious manuscripts or books by ancient writers for yourself, and not only does she encourage you to add another language to your vocabulary, but she also provides some links where you can find out about places to do that online. Greek, anyone?