Different Languages, Cultures, and Age Groups

I just come across an article about the "Self Help for the Elderly" San Mateo Center. In addition to ESL, this center is also teaching people age 55 or older to learn Mandarin, the official language of China.

Lolo Chang Pan (age 78) taught Mandarin in this center for ten years. Pan's students include ABCs, Chinese immigrants who spoke Cantonese and/or came to the States at a young age. A few others, like Ellen Wallace who has visted China 10 times, are non-Chinese who merely want to learn.

Although my in-laws are from Taiwan, nobody demanded me to speak Mandarin when I got married. I did not want to make a fool of myself with yet another new language. By then, English seem to suffice as my language of choice in the United States. Since I spoke only English at work, some of my colleagues did not know I could understand Cantonese and Mandarin.

In 1989, I started attending a Mandarin speaking church. I was immersed in the language (e.g. during Worship Service, Sunday School, Bible Studies, Fellowship, Prayer meeting, and even potluck). For some reasons, this time I was really motivated to learn. Once in awhile, I still felt discouraged and embarrassed when others gave me a puzzled look. Gradually, I could read Scriptures out loud in Mandarin and eventually lead Bible studies in Mandarin.

To be honest, I felt more at home with English. I was relieved to find out I could teach children in English (since most kids at our church were ABCs). Reading from the NIV Bible and memorizing verses in English prepared me for my seminary studies a few years later. By then, I could attend English service with our son (who was in Junior High). I became friends with many ABCs who are teachers and parents. I have been in many Mandarin speaking groups, but one of my fondest memories is studying the Bible in a English-speaking Mom's group with women in their twenties and early thirties.

In 2004, my husband began his ministry at another Mandarin-speaking church. But this time, most people are from China. Some of them (especially the grandparents) do not speak any English. As a pastor's wife, I have to use Mandarin daily. I enjoyed studying the Bible exclusively in Mandarin with older women who are here in the United States to take care of their grandchildren.

Are you struggling with different cultures, languages, and age groups? I used to be very conscientious about differences. Now I thank God for the adventure. A few months ago, I left a message for a sister whom I haven't spoken with for a few years. Although I used to talk to her in English, this time I left a message entirely in Mandarin. She called me back and asked, "Are you the same Winnis I know?" I am amazed!

"I can do everything through him who gives me strength" (Philippians 4:13).

Copyright © 2005-2007 Winnis Chiang, Parenting ABC