The Language Of The Heart

Nelson Mandela in Johannesburg, Gauteng, on 13 May 1998 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart.  ~ Nelson Mandela

I can remember the first couple of times I traveled to Italy, and would attempt to speak the language.  Especially in the marketplace, Italians for the most part, were appreciative of my attempt.  I must say I’m a little out of practice now, but I remember well how much of a difference it made – to the hotel desk clerk, the grocery clerk, the train ticket office, etc.  It always produced a smile and a soft, helpful tone.  (Except once when I was in Venice – but then, the poor vendor probably was sick of dealing with foreigners.)  Even when in “English-speaking” countries, the natives appreciate when you understand their idioms.

Have you tried to learn some phrases when you have visited other countries?  Do you notice a difference in treatment when you try to speak someone else’s language?  Share your stories with us!

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