As we said goodbyes, recapped our favorite memories, and prepared to leave the people we had grown close to over the last month, several Colombians shared similar parting words with us: “Thank you for learning Spanish.” While I often consider the positive impacts being bilingual might have on my life, I rarely think about what it means for other people.
But to those who thanked me, my effort to learn their language and their culture means a lot. It shows them that while the loudest voices campaign to build up walls, many people are finding ways to break down barriers. It gives them hope for unity, and it shows them love.
Un abrazo,
Kathryn
