I have received one question through various mediums, such as my YouTube channel, email, Quora, and a previous social media platform I used to have. The question is:
How important is it to learn German to come to Germany?
Here's my answer:
VERY IMPORTANT.
It is like this: you cannot go to a planetarium and expect to see animals; you see planets, solar systems, our Milky Way, and maybe a room dedicated to astronauts, the ISS, satellites, etc. Similarly, you cannot go to a zoo and expect to see astronauts, space shuttles, or space-related items. You get to see animals. You know what I mean. In Germany, people speak German. They do speak other languages like English, and immigrants from other countries who have been living in Germany for a long time might speak Arabic, Farsi, Hindi, Punjabi, and also English. But the national language is German. In order for you to blend in and feel like you belong, you need to learn German. Now, the question of 'I belong only to the country I was born in or where I am from' or 'I will never feel belonged because how I look etc.' is different! By belonging, I mean not feeling like an outsider.
When you step outside in Germany, you will hear German in shops, street markets, buses, trains, and at concerts, because you're in Germany. You cannot escape the language, and why should you? It is amazing to learn a new language and challenge the lobes of your brain. Do something outside your comfort zone, make yourself uncomfortable, and open yourself to new challenges. Give yourself the pleasure and pride of being able to speak a new language.
You will not only feel good about yourself, but you will also feel more integrated. You can communicate with the older generation, and believe me, they're absolutely lovely. They will praise your German skills (even if you're speaking incorrectly) to such an extent that you'll love yourself and have butterflies in your stomach. You will be able to communicate with bus drivers and receptionists at hotels about what exactly you want.
Germans can speak English, and many do. But many cannot. I myself know Germans who are much better at English than I am and also Germans who do not understand English at all. If you want to come to Germany, it is your task to learn the language. Expecting the other person to be able to speak English is a weak move on your part (in my opinion!).
So, to the question, my answer is: do learn German. Use Duolingo, join groups on social media instead of scrolling mindlessly through crazy, idiotic dance or prank videos. Get out of your comfort zone and show yourself what you're capable of.
No comments:
Post a Comment