by Buddy Miller

Created on: May 14, 2008

To "declare" English the official language of the United States could be a powerful action. That English is the dominant spoken language in the United States is undeniable. With all the mix of past and present generations that embrace a particular language other than English, it would be folly to think no other languages have a place here. However, English will continue to dominate our communications in the spoken and written mediums for the foreseeable future.

Perhaps the most important aspects of the English language in the United States are the universal usage and the commonality it brings brings to the country. It draws everyone that speaks other languages to understand what is going on around them. English is the "cement" that holds this country's ideals together. No matter if English is your "native" language or if it is now a second language, these words are where the world is absorbed and expressed. English is the path to success in business, education and social advancement. English is where you and your family becomes part of everything in the United States. To not embrace English is to never reach the rich potential of full participation that is available.

Mastering English is possible the single greatest gift to yourself while living in an English-speaking country. No matter what your occupation or your dreams, the ability to read, listen and express yourself in writing will allow you to reap every advantage available. It gives personal power to protect yourself and your family. You grow every day by participating in the English-speaking world around you. The greater the skill; the greater the participation. English in no way diminishes the richness and cultural significance of other languages in your life.

Recognizing English as your "official" language is personally felt by opening the opportunities of full expression. With any language it is not enough to simply understand and speak. Languages are to be spoken and written properly and precisely as possible in order to make your thoughts clear. That's how dreams happen in any language.

Speaking, writing and living in all languages requires us to study and expand our abilities to use our skill to the maximum. This is the difference between seeing language as a rich, wonderful challenge throughout our lives and the perception that language is a harsh cultural barrier. Within the United States there is a growing rift between those that speak English and those that do not. Speaking English has nothing to do with cultural preferences or slang. Race has nothing to do with speaking proper English. National origin has absolutely nothing to do with accepting English as the "official" language of the United States. Regardless of place of birth, English simply is the pathway to all that any person is now and will become in the United States. If that's not "official" then I cannot explain it more clearly.

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