How languages changed my life:
Growing up, as an army child, travelling the world listening to different languages and seeing how they are intertwined with culture was a privilege that I perhaps took for granted.
I never actually lived in one place long enough to fluently learn the language or to gain a deep-seated confidence that allowed me to comfortably converse in it.
In hindsight I think that this was a precursor to my real language learning journey that was to come later because this lack of confidence, in using the languages around me, enabled me to be more ‘at home’ in using gestures and a freedom to use facial expression to reveal my emotions – or to hide them!
British Sign Language – a cultural and linguistic tapestry
A good few years and 3 children later, I found myself learning British Sign Language and the freedom that it gave me to think visually and without limitations was incredible.
Learning British Sign Language has given me a whole new outlook on life and an appreciation of a culture that is not bound by borders or city limits. Having worked and studied both the language and the culture for over 7 years I finally felt that I had the necessary competency skill set to work as a NRCPD registered and qualified British Sign Language/English Interpreter.
The privilege, I so neglected to understand as a child, of a cultural and linguistic ‘tapestry’ is still one that I am learning to appreciate as I navigate myself around the complexities of human interaction, over 25 years later!
The most precious gift that I take from my language learning is the insight into the thoughts and feelings of others.
To be able to use a language, be embraced by the people that use it are the most satisfying elements of the journey, to earn a living by using it is the cherry on the cake!
Sue Lee
- British Sign Language and English Interpreter, Becoming Visible
