[Day 25] A Lesson My Parents Taught Me That I’ll Never Forget

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There are moments in childhood that leave an indelible mark, shaping who we become.

For me, one such defining experience occurred when I was just six years old. It wasn't a grand adventure or a monumental achievement; it was a simple yet profound lesson from my parents:

Learning English was the key to unlocking a vast treasure trove of knowledge.

Back then, the world beyond my small house felt vast and mysterious. Information seemed scarce and guarded.

My parents, though lacking formal education themselves, held a deep respect for knowledge. They yearned for me to have opportunities beyond the confines of our village life.

One day, a flyer announcing English language classes for children caught their attention. The vibrant picture of a smiling teacher surrounded by kids holding colorful books ignited a spark in their eyes. Despite the financial strain, they decided to enroll me. My initial reaction was a mix of curiosity and apprehension. English, with its strange sounds and unfamiliar alphabet, seemed like a daunting mountain to climb.

The first few classes were a whirlwind of confusion. The teacher, a kind woman with twinkling eyes, spoke in a language that sounded like melodic gibberish to my young ears. I felt a pang of isolation, surrounded by classmates who already knew a few basic words. Discouragement gnawed at me.

Was I even capable of learning this complex language?

Then, something remarkable happened. As the teacher used pictures, gestures, and simple actions to explain the meaning of words, a connection began to form. The word "apple" became a tangible object I could hold and taste. "Run" translated into the joyous act of racing my friends across the classroom. Slowly, the foreign language started to unravel, revealing its secrets one word at a time.

The turning point came when I finally grasped the concept of reading. The once indecipherable symbols on the pages transformed into stories that transported me to magical lands. I devoured books about brave explorers, curious scientists, and fantastical creatures. English wasn't just a language anymore; it was a passport to a universe of knowledge.

Learning English became my obsession. I carried around a tattered dictionary, meticulously copying words and their meanings. Every new word felt like a precious gem, adding to my growing vocabulary. My parents, despite not understanding the language themselves, took immense pride in my progress. Their unwavering support fueled my determination.

The benefits of learning English extended beyond textbooks. It opened doors to previously inaccessible information. Television shows, once incomprehensible background noise, became windows into different cultures. I discovered documentaries about the wonders of the natural world, news reports that kept me informed about global events, and educational programs that sparked my curiosity about science and history.

The impact of that initial step into the world of English has resonated throughout my life. It fueled my academic journey, allowing me to access a wider range of educational materials. It empowered me to connect with people from diverse backgrounds, fostering friendships and broadening my understanding of the world. Today, my career thrives on my ability to communicate effectively in English.

I can learn new knowledge and skills from English blogs and courses. I can even communicate with my dear forever true good friend Yvette Sanchez.

Although I am not still good at speaking English, I am confident that I can communicate well.

Looking back, I am incredibly grateful to my parents for their foresight and unwavering support. Their simple act of enrolling me in English classes opened doors I never knew existed. It's a testament to the power of education and the transformative potential of language. The world, once a closed book, became an open library waiting to be explored.

This experience isn't just about the value of learning English; it's a universal lesson. Whether it's a new language, a coding program, or a musical instrument, embracing new skills can unlock a world of possibilities. It's a reminder that knowledge is a lifelong pursuit, and the journey of learning is its own reward.

So, the next time you encounter something unfamiliar, something that seems daunting, remember the little six-year-old me, struggling to decipher a foreign language. Take a deep breath, embrace the challenge, and unlock the magic key that awaits.