LEARNING A NEW LANGUAGE

When you live in Yuma, Arizona, you start to learn Spanish whether you want to or not. This is important because over half of the population is of Hispanic heritage. Those who don’t even try to learn the language actually learn by osmosis. Because of the makeup of the population most signs display both English and Spanish. In addition, products in the stores have dual languages on the packages. Comparing the two versions while browsing the aisles is an excellent way to learn. Spoken language is a lot harder to assimilate. Even though you hear Spanish just about everywhere you go, the words go by too fast. When I first arrived in Yuma I took a short course in the language at Arizona Western College. It helped me learn the basics and a few helpful phrases such as “No se mucho Espanol.” (“I don’t speak much Spanish.”) and “?Donde esta el bano.” (“Where is the bathroom?”). Since my aging brain is too full to absorb much new information, I’ve found it’s easier to use the translator on my iPod. At least I’m making an effort to be a good citizen of the Southwest. Most of the people who come to spend the winter don’t really seem to care if they know Spanish or not.