April 20 marks UN Chinese Language Day, a celebration of one of the world’s oldest languages and a nod to the importance of multilingualism and cultural diversity. For Rachel Weiss, an American who moved to the Chinese mainland three years ago, learning Chinese has been a journey filled with challenges, surprises, and profound personal growth.
“I remember ordering mǎipiàn, thinking I was getting oatmeal, but I accidentally said máipiàn and ended up with wheat flakes,” Rachel laughs. “Little mistakes like that taught me not just the language, but also the culture and humor of the people.”
Rachel’s initial struggles with tones and characters gradually gave way to meaningful conversations and friendships. “Learning Chinese opened doors I never knew existed,” she says. “It allowed me to connect deeply with people and understand perspectives different from my own.”
UN Chinese Language Day aims to promote equal use of all six official UN languages and encourage cultural diversity. Rachel believes that embracing another language is key to building bridges across cultures. “Language is more than words; it’s a gateway to understanding traditions, history, and ways of thinking,” she explains.
As we celebrate this day, Rachel’s journey reminds us of the value of stepping out of our comfort zones. Her story highlights how learning a new language can enrich our lives and bring us closer together in an increasingly interconnected world.
How has learning Chinese impacted you? Share your story below!
