Language is more than a tool for communication; it is the lens through which we perceive, interpret, and engage with the world. Traditionally, a “first language” is considered the one we acquire from birth, often termed the “mother tongue.” However, my experiences have led me to a more nuanced understanding: a first language is the medium through which an individual learns to define the world in its entirety, tailored to their unique needs and capacities.
Personal Journey: A Tapestry of Languages and Perspectives
My relationship with language has never been linear. Born into a Friulan family, my earliest linguistic immersion was in Friulan and Italian. These languages were not just modes of communication but carriers of history, culture, and identity.
As I grew older, English became my dominant language, shaping much of my academic and intellectual development. Yet, the echoes of my early linguistic experiences remained, subtly influencing my worldview in ways I would only come to fully appreciate later.
At the age of 23, I embarked on the journey of learning Japanese. While I have yet to master reading, the years spent engaging with the language have granted me access to an entirely distinct cultural and philosophical framework. Learning Japanese was not just about acquiring vocabulary or grammar—it was about embracing a new way of perceiving relationships, time, and existence itself.
What makes this experience profound is the way these linguistic influences interact. The Friulan and Italian roots of my childhood, the academic and intellectual grounding in English, and the philosophical insights gained through Japanese all intertwine, shaping how I understand and navigate the world. Language, in this sense, is not a fixed point in time but an evolving, living entity that grows with me.
Educational Implications: Embracing Linguistic Fluidity
In my professional journey as an educator, this redefinition of “first language” has profound implications. Recognizing that students may find their truest expression in languages other than their initial one challenges the conventional structures of language education. It becomes imperative to create learning environments that honor and integrate this linguistic fluidity.
As an educator, I encourage students to engage with content in the language they feel most connected to, even if it’s not the primary language of instruction. This approach has led to deeper comprehension and more authentic self-expression. By validating their linguistic choices, we not only enhance academic outcomes but also foster a sense of identity and belonging.
Furthermore, acknowledging that a person’s first language—the one that defines their world—is not necessarily the one they first spoke challenges traditional assessments of fluency and proficiency. It suggests that language education should be about more than just mechanics; it should be about fostering meaningful connections between language, thought, and personal growth.
Human Development: Language as an Evolving Companion
Understanding language as a dynamic entity that evolves with an individual underscores its role in human development. As we navigate different phases of life, the languages that best articulate our experiences may change. Embracing this evolution allows for a more holistic approach to personal growth.
Reflecting on my own life, there were periods where Italian and Friulan connected me to my familial and cultural roots, where English became the medium of intellectual exploration, and where Japanese provided a bridge to new ways of thinking. Each language has served as a companion, aiding me in defining and redefining my world.
A Call for Open-Mindedness in Language Perception
Redefining “first language” to encompass the language that best allows an individual to define their world challenges us to move beyond rigid classifications. It invites educators, policymakers, and individuals to recognize and honor the fluid nature of language in personal and collective development. By doing so, we not only enrich our educational paradigms but also deepen our understanding of the intricate tapestry of human experience.