I never paused to read the sign in front of the center across from the English Language Institute. It could have indicated an art gallery, a gym, or a safe space. I was too engrossed in the details of my new environment. I clearly remember walking into the institute on my first day, encountering unfamiliar faces, and feeling a sense of shyness after performing well in the language test. I was placed in the advanced class, speaking English with an ease that made me feel almost native. I clung to my father’s advice: “The best way to start a conversation is by talking about the weather.” Countless times, I began conversations with the phrase, “The weather is nice today!”—a simple, friendly way to break the ice with classmates who had traveled across continents to learn the language.
What started as a casual conversation about the weather became a gateway to deeper connections with people from diverse backgrounds. Through this simple interaction, we found common ground,
navigating the complexities of language and culture together. Language, after all, is not just a tool for communication—it’s a pathway to personal growth. It shapes our identity and influences our way of thinking. When we learn a new language, we don’t merely learn grammar and vocabulary; we begin to absorb the cultural nuances that come with it. In British society, discussing the weather is more than just a polite formality—it is a cultural tradition that fosters connection and helps people build relationships.
I still remember the words of my British classmate, Sheila: “You’re a dreamer, and you have so much potential to achieve your dreams.” In those early days, I believed her, I believed in the power of language, and I believed in my dreams. As I pursued those dreams, I found myself navigating a journey—sometimes stumbling, sometimes achieving milestones. But every step, whether successful or not, was part of the process. Today, when I look up and see the sign in front of me, I no longer just notice the weather—I engage more deeply in conversations that truly connect me with others. I reflect on those early discussions I didn’t fully grasp, and realize how small conversations have the power to foster relationships, broaden perspectives, and deepen our understanding of different cultures.
