Math. Science. Literature. History. Those are the basics, right? The "real" subjects.
Spanish, on the other hand, . . . well, that's not nearly as important, wouldn't you say?
¡Al contrario!
While I would never undervalue the "core" subjects (in fact, I love them, and have minors in both math and chemistry), nevertheless, foreign language is the one we use to connect directly with people. To share experiences, to learn and teach, to forge relationships through travel and exchange, to share life, to minister, and to share the gospel. Sure, you can attempt to tell someone about who Jesus Christ is through numbers, or scientific formulas, or even memes for that matter. But for my money, give me language - and the people and the hearts with whom it will connect me!
Knowing Spanish can open doors you would never expect. For me, it has enriched my life in myriad unexpected ways. It has enabled me to forge friendships I've kept over decades, help build church buildings, read books to barefoot, dirt-poor happy children, act as translator on medical missions, counsel pregnant unmarried moms at a crisis pregnancy center, secure a high-paying tutoring job in college, teach in prestigious high schools and universities, travel and stay with families in Spanish-speaking countries, worship God in another language, learn songs and dance, climb a snow-covered volcano, work on a farm in Ecuador, hunt sharks in Mexico and barracuda in Cancún, write books, speak at conferences, and even help deliver a premature baby in the Mexican wilderness. More significantly, I've been able to share about Jesus Christ on the beach, in restaurants, at social events, in people's homes, and in my own neighborhood.
Although all students are required to study 2 years of foreign language, it's certainly not everyone's calling. But take heart! Even if Spanish does not end up as your vocation or even your avocation, research has shown that knowing a foreign language still gives you the following benefits:
Like some of you, I had zero interest in learning Spanish when I was in high school. I took it because it was a required course, and I did the same in college. But looking back on how God works all things for the good of those who love him (Rom. 8:28), I am astounded and praise God for his wisdom and blessing in having learned to speak another language. May the Lord bless you as YOU enjoy the challenge of becoming bilingual, and may you do it to his glory.
Sra. Marsh
March, 2017