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We have all heard the saying, "it's a small world after all". Some have called it flat. The truth is, it is. Because of advancement of transportation and the birth of the Internet we are able to communicate and transact businesses all over the globe. We are like little"Christopher Columbus's" discovering new lands, people, cultures and of course, languages. One is able to log on to the Internet and talk with a resident from Lima, Peru or Lagos, Nigeria. It is not unheard of that people in these lands can communicate in several languages. Now, that is wonderful. There are definite benefits of learning a foreign language.

It is natural to have a little trepidation when threading on a new territory. However, there is more to gain delving into this new horizon. Neighborhoods all over America are becoming more multi-cultured. With the varied cultures, new languages come along. As humans, whenever we are not familiar with someone, we tend to have preconceived ideas, and sometimes, we do stereotype a particular group or natives of a country. They speak a different tongue/language that we are unfamiliar with. In a situation as this, a barrier develops. This would be the perfect time for one to learn a foreign language and get to know a neighbor, whether it may be next door or in another country. In a case like this, language can develop friendships and obviously breakdown barriers. You would be surprised to know how much we have in common.

As stated above, Globalization has put us closer together. More and more companies are conducting business overseas. For instance, the Latin American market is huge. It has become a very thriving territory. Quite a number of businesses are requesting biligual personnel to be part of their team. Also, in the Middle/Far Eastern countries, American companies have expanded their boundaries due to growing markets in these countries. Some might state that it is unfair for them to learn another language in order to secure a job. But, the fact is that those foreigners are quickly learning and grasping the English language. As a result, they are more marketable. Thus, sometimes, it comes down to the advancement of one's career to learn a foreign language.

Record numbers of Americans are vacationing overseas. Most times they are visiting countries that speak a foreign language. Everyone desires comfort and ease when communicating with others especially about basis needs (bath-room, etc.) directions, food and safety, etc. It would be great if one could speak a particular language of that country or even know some survival expressions. It would only broaden one's interest and knowledge of that culture, customs and its people.

As people, we tend to have our families, friends, neighbors. We are set in our ways and daily routines of life. And, nothing is wrong about that. However, if we are close-minded and raised our kids in that manner then their future for career development and otherwise will be equally narrow and boxed-in. There is a huge world. out there. Perhaps, it is a great time to explore by learning a foreign language. The possibilities are endless.

Learn more about this author, Betty Blake.
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