I am finding it hard to believe that learned people (I know there are some), especially someone like a Social Anthropologist, are not screaming and tearing their hairs out, or at least clenching teeth at night, over the deconstruction of speaking American English. I believe that over the course of Human history it is evident that one of the precursors to a cohesive and productive society is a common language. What can make us more alike and less "foreign" than common language. It was, in my opinion, one of the stumbling blocks in uniting great countries like Italy and great continents like Africa. Just too damn many languages and dialects. Now when I think about the difficulties a New Yawkah has coming down South, or vice versa, it makes it all the more mystifying that there are those who are silent or even very pro-active in making other languages common or even mandated in America. While I do agree, and have maintained for several decades, that Americans would do well to learn a foreign language (or God forbid several) starting in pre-school or, at least, elementary school. And also that many Americans travelling abroad are way too "expectant" in assuming (or demanding) that everyone else in the world speak English. I also fully believe, and maintain, that by not instilling an "English is for Americans" imperitive in all those who seek to come to this country and become one of its citizens are insuring the gradual but certain deconstruction of America. Hey friend...I am happy for you to come here legally and be productive. Hell, I will do what I can to help you. But if you don't see the value in learning to speak "our" language and become part of the fabric of this still great nation (yeah...I know it's a little rocky now)...and you think that it is better to make a little space here to recreate a little "mini home country". Then I don't want you here. Embrace your heritage, be multi-lingual, have a day a year when you eat the Sauerbraten or dance the polka or toss that big rock...whatever it is....but the next day.....we are all back to being Americans...together....we may disagree on some or many things...but at least we don't need an interpreter.
I gotta go now....my Rosetta Stone language course is waiting for me....ACHTUNG !!!!!
.....almost had my boojang workin'
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