Hobby: Foreign Languages · Society of Ordinary Gentlemen

10d (edited) • Mental/Physical Well Being 🥊

Hobby: Foreign Languages

I've mentioned here and there that though I'm not fluent in languages other than English, I dabble in several to a functional extent.

Having been raised by an Austrian grandfather and French grandmother, I picked up enough to get in trouble. As I aged, I explored others; Japanese, Turkish, Russian, Latin, Spanish, Arabic...

If you're a fellow polyglot, I highly recommend the app HelloTalk. It's free to an extent, and only $12/mo for unlimited translation and several other features. I've used it on and off for the last decade, and it's been quite an enriching experience.

It's not just a language exchange, but psychological, and learning what friendship means to different cultures. Yes, I've been spending less time here in S/OG, and what isn't dedicated to work and family, I dedicate to my hobbies.

Most recently, I've been brushing up on Russian again. Despite all the negative flak they get, they're some of the kindest and most intelligent people I've ever spoken with... and the ladies? Practically effortless and enjoyable to chat with, unlike locals where I live. They also don't ghost anywhere near as much as others. Put in the effort, and they check on you if it's been a few days.

Also, today, Jan 7th, is their Christmas (Orthodox). Their Santa likes to make house calls and party... enough to make Billy Bob Thornton as Bad Santa blush.