Entry 8: My Native Language

 

    Coming a long way from home, from Bangkok, Thailand to Greencastle, Indiana, there have been numerous changes in my life. However, one of the most common questions I was asked was about the differences between the two languages and which one I preferred. The two languages I speak are very different and have little in common; nonetheless, I am fluent in both due to my background.I would say I am fluent in both, but I think I should analyze each portion more thoroughly.

Listening: 

In terms of listening, I am confident that I am well-versed in both languages. Since my family has always spoken Thai and we use it regularly, I am very familiar with it. In terms of English, despite the fact that I did not grow up in an English-speaking family, I still have a fairly English environment at school because I was surrounded by native teachers since elementary school. However, if I had to choose which language I am more comfortable ease with, I would definitely answer my native language because I have more friends who are Thai native speakers making me more at comfortable with Thai language than English.However, ever since I immigrated to the US, I have grown more comfortable with listening to native English speakers.

Reading

Just like with listening, I am equally comfortable reading in both languages. Academic reading in Thai can be difficult at times, but understanding reading in English can also be challenging for me. I actually think it depends on the situation because I prefer reading for leisure in Thai more, but English language reading is sometimes more direct and understable.

Speaking

To no one's surprise, I am far more comfortable speaking Thai than English. When I talked English, especially among native speakers, I felt like I was really struggling. Even if my English isn't awful, I lack confidence. I find that when I'm speaking to someone one-on-one, I can communicate more without worrying about making a mistake. However, I've been trying to speak more and more, and I'm getting better at it, but I still believe I need a lot of work to be more confident.

Writing

I can say with confidence that I feel more comfortable writing in English than Thai. This may have surprised many people, but my argument was that I was taught to write in English more than Thai during my time in high school. Since I failed my Thailand class in grade 10, I've struggled to write in Thai. Many of my friends have said that my Thai writing is poor, and I agree. I know my English writing isn't great, but I felt much more confident and at ease when writing, and I thoroughly loved it.

Conclusion

I realized that my evaluation of the two languages is based on two factors: comfort and confidence. I believe that these two languages both play a significant role in my life and help characterize who I am. Though I may not be proficient in all aspects of both languages, I value the fact that I am bilingual and appreciate this aspect of myself.

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