I have committed myself to two and a half years (30 months) of intense concentrated language study and I have started this blog so that I can look back when the road ahead appears too long. While I know words and phrases in my ancestral language I don't have the knowledge and ability to converse freely in any topic. To speak to others and be understood. When we steadily move towards a goal, even a day at a time, much ground can be covered. I am writing for my children so they can tangibly see the progress that I make towards my goal. It is my hope that I will honor my ancestors as I seek to reacquire the language that was stolen from them and subsequent generations. It is my hope that others may be encouraged as they too make their language journey.
Our language is our medicine and the responsibility for learning Native languages rests on the shoulders of every adult in every Tribe. We must learn so that the we put an end to apathy and assimilation. We learn so we can revitalize each individual. Each couple. Each family. Each clan and subsequently our Tribes... We must learn to speak our languages so that we can pray to Creator in the languages given to our ancestors and teach our children.
Our language is our culture. It is in fact the very history of our ancestors as well as ourselves. We must know our songs. We must speak to our Elders and much is lost when we cannot hear the stories that have been handed down from generation to generation in another language.
Our language is our future. I choose to learn my Indigenous languages not only so I can speak to Elders, but so that I can speak to and teach my children and grandchildren. Indigenous languages are so beautiful, so descriptive and that beauty is being lost even as we speak. My language will not die because I choose to watch TV or play games rather than study. My language will not die because I choose to do any number of other things that might be perfectly good, but which will not help me in my desire to learn my language. This doesn't mean that I won't watch TV! It does mean that I will not watch TV when I haven't spent time studying.
Studying isn't glamourous, and yes it can be challenging. Many times it involves dictionaries and or workbooks. Flashcards and language CD's. Best yet is when you can spend time with others in your community and have them teach you one on one or in language classes. Don't be afraid to begin or be embarrassed by your skill level no matter what it may be. I encourage you to tell family members and friends about your endeavor and ask for their help. Pray to Creator before you begin your studies asking for help in learning and retaining the knowledge that you cover each day (yes, I said each day).
That is it for now. I hope and pray that you will follow me on my journey and lift me and my family up in prayer. This won't be easy, but I know I will get it done. One day at a time....
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