Stacie:
Well, we just finished another day of classes, and for the first time, I’m not completely exhausted! This last block we’ve been having only CLA Methodology (Culture Language Acquisition), and it is a lot to handle! Basically, we’ve been practicing how to learn a new language and culture by conversing with a natural speaker instead of using textbooks and flashcards, which is a great way to learn a language and build relationships at the same time! When we first started this class, our brains would just be fried after a morning of trying to remember how to say “man” and “young girl” and “jump” and “dance” (thank you Rhett, for adding that one!), but lately the sounds have become more recognizable, and the complicated language is getting a little easier to remember! This may sound like something pretty minor to be excited about, but when your brain is hurting after only two class periods, and this is something we’re going to be expected to be doing hours a day when we’re learning a tribal language, it’s a bit overwhelming! One thing is certain: this is a job that definitely requires some Holy Spirit power! Even now, with a couple years to go before actually beginning that process, I am intimidated a little by the prospect of all this, but God keeps reminding me that if He brings us to that place, He is more than capable of allowing us to learn a new language, even a complicated one if necessary. God’s passion for these people is far beyond anything I could muster up, and He wants them reached much more than we do. If He chooses to bless us by allowing us to be a part of that, He’ll also bless us with the ability (and patience!) to endure day after day of language learning. Really, though it seems daunting, I am actually looking forward to learning a language this way. This whole talking to people concept is much more attractive than flash cards! ɑnjʌŋ i kɑ seo!
Grandpa says
Sounds like a lot of fun. We sure didn’t have that good training when we went to Missionary Training.
Learning languages was one thing I really enjoyed, I never had the privilege of learning a brand new tribal language but did learn Spanish and Guarani.
We are praying much for you that the Lord will make his will known to you and you will be willing to followed His guidance.
Love,
Grandpa