Abstract: For this assignment, we were required to write about a significant event in our life where literacy/ language changed us or our outlook. I mention a specific moment of each language that has shaped who I am today and played a significant role throughout my life. Moreover, this essay truly demonstrates my personal story from Venezuela to the United States, where I learn each language and its challenges moment.
I was born and raised in Venezuela, and the first language I learned to read and write was Spanish, but the language I use to communicate in my household was Chinese. Speaking three languages might be enthralling for many people, and a lot of advantages in today’s world. Nonetheless, there are a lot of difficulties behind each language, but I admire these three languages because it has shaped who I am today.
Growing up learning Spanish wasn’t easy, and Venezuela’s lack of education. One of the earliest memories I recall was reading Spanish syllables like Sa-Se-Si-So-Su along with my elementary school teacher and attended school only from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm. Learning from school was arduous but at least is where I can improve my Spanish speaking. After school ended, I went home, turned on the old fashion Tube Television with a big screen, and watch El Chavo del Ocho while laying down on the sofa. Watching the Spanish TV channel is where I can pronounce the words correctly by following the lines they said. Later on, at the age of 10, I came to the United States, a place where I learned a new language in a new environment. The first day of middle school in the United States was unforgettable, holding my parents’ hands and feeling of trepidation inside me while stepping into the huge building around 5-6th floors tall, and saying bye to my parents.
When I think about my literate life in America, I can visualize numerous words from the books that I have read, and without knowing the meaning or the pronunciation of the words. My English teacher assigned many books for me to read, to catch up with the other students, and learn English in speedy. After reading more in school, my English has improved little by little. Reading or writing wasn’t my favorite activity, but the learning doesn’t deal with liking it or not.
One of the books I have read in High School that impressed me was a novel called The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan. This book made me understand more about my parents’ heritage and be appreciated by what we have now. A novel shares the stories of four Chinese women who immigrated to America for a better life because they have experienced difficulties during the Second World War, and all they want to find in America was joy and luck. But their daughters that were born in America never understand why their mom was so strict to them and have a high standard of expectation on them. After reading this book, I began to understand more about Chinese heritage and the importance of joy for each person.
Learning the Language of English is an open window to understand more from one box to another. Literary for me isn’t just the ability to read and write, besides where I learn from the others, express myself, learn a lesson from my mistakes, and where improvements take place. Growing up learning Spanish Literary has built my self-learning skill. Also, recognize the similarities and differences between Spanish/ Chinese heritage. These three languages were my representative of who I am and shaped today me as a learner.
