This was beautiful to read. Thank you for sharing this very personal understanding of language and identity. Coming from New Zealand, I understand how important language is, and the harm caused by British colonial rule. I am currently in the Netherlands studying myself, hoping to learn Dutch (the language of my grandparents) and though my experience is nothing compared to yours / the Irish language, I understand the desire to speak and live the language of the people and culture that came before us. I hope to learn more about the Irish language- and perhaps even a few sayings or words!- from your future posts.
Oh thank you so much Brie, what a lovely thoughtful response. It's heartening to know that my piece is relatable to those from other countries affected by colonialism, and not just Ireland. Your experience in the Netherlands sounds so exciting, learning about your heritage and culture; it's a lovely country and a gorgeous place to live. I found the language to be similar to English in some ways (except for the spelling). Looking forward to reading what you post in the future <3
I love the English language too but I'm disgusted by how many cultures and languages it has almost wiped out in the process... including Irish. In my country, the Indigenous population have also been tormented to no ends in order for them to swap their culture and language out for what the British deemed appropriate and the aftermath of it is complicated, messy and heartbreaking. My own home country was also British-colonized but thankfully we didn't lose our culture, religion or language, nevertheless, it pains me to see people being made to forget in the first place. But, there are always people like you who find their way back to their language and culture and I really appreciate this, it's very endearing and hopeful and I wish you the best in your experiences, I truly hope you're able to reclaim your language fully!
What a thoughtful and compassionate response, thank you. It's a complicated and confusing legacy, for sure, balancing love of the English language with the knowledge of the damage it has wreaked. It's a testament to the strength of a people, their ability to preserve language and culture amidst colonisation. It means a lot that you took the time to read my post and to then share your thoughts with me. I look forward to reading your pieces <33
Thank you so much for responding! Anything related to colonization is complicated and fraught with rightful sensitivities. I look forward to reading your other posts too and hope that I don't disappoint you if you choose to read mine, thank you<3
I wanted to express my gratitude for your insightful post. As someone with Irish heritage, I found your words particularly meaningful and resonant. Your expertise and passion truly shine through, making it an enlightening and engaging read. Please continue to share your valuable insights; they are not only informative but also truly inspiring. You're doing exceptional work!
Wow, this is probably the best compliment you could give me. Thank you so much! I’m truly touched. I’m far from an expert, but stay posted for more pieces touching on Irish culture/history/heritage as they are very important to me, and I’m so glad to be able to share them with others. Go raibh míle <3
This was beautiful to read. Thank you for sharing this very personal understanding of language and identity. Coming from New Zealand, I understand how important language is, and the harm caused by British colonial rule. I am currently in the Netherlands studying myself, hoping to learn Dutch (the language of my grandparents) and though my experience is nothing compared to yours / the Irish language, I understand the desire to speak and live the language of the people and culture that came before us. I hope to learn more about the Irish language- and perhaps even a few sayings or words!- from your future posts.
Oh thank you so much Brie, what a lovely thoughtful response. It's heartening to know that my piece is relatable to those from other countries affected by colonialism, and not just Ireland. Your experience in the Netherlands sounds so exciting, learning about your heritage and culture; it's a lovely country and a gorgeous place to live. I found the language to be similar to English in some ways (except for the spelling). Looking forward to reading what you post in the future <3
I love the English language too but I'm disgusted by how many cultures and languages it has almost wiped out in the process... including Irish. In my country, the Indigenous population have also been tormented to no ends in order for them to swap their culture and language out for what the British deemed appropriate and the aftermath of it is complicated, messy and heartbreaking. My own home country was also British-colonized but thankfully we didn't lose our culture, religion or language, nevertheless, it pains me to see people being made to forget in the first place. But, there are always people like you who find their way back to their language and culture and I really appreciate this, it's very endearing and hopeful and I wish you the best in your experiences, I truly hope you're able to reclaim your language fully!
What a thoughtful and compassionate response, thank you. It's a complicated and confusing legacy, for sure, balancing love of the English language with the knowledge of the damage it has wreaked. It's a testament to the strength of a people, their ability to preserve language and culture amidst colonisation. It means a lot that you took the time to read my post and to then share your thoughts with me. I look forward to reading your pieces <33
Thank you so much for responding! Anything related to colonization is complicated and fraught with rightful sensitivities. I look forward to reading your other posts too and hope that I don't disappoint you if you choose to read mine, thank you<3
I wanted to express my gratitude for your insightful post. As someone with Irish heritage, I found your words particularly meaningful and resonant. Your expertise and passion truly shine through, making it an enlightening and engaging read. Please continue to share your valuable insights; they are not only informative but also truly inspiring. You're doing exceptional work!
Wow, this is probably the best compliment you could give me. Thank you so much! I’m truly touched. I’m far from an expert, but stay posted for more pieces touching on Irish culture/history/heritage as they are very important to me, and I’m so glad to be able to share them with others. Go raibh míle <3