Welsh is more than just a language. It is a way of life, a culture, and a sense of identity. As a native speaker of Welsh, I can attest to the fact that speaking Welsh with my friends and thinking in Welsh has shaped my perspective on the world and has become an integral part of who I am.
Growing up in Wales, I was fortunate enough to be raised in a bilingual household where both Welsh and English were spoken. However, it wasn’t until I started school that I truly began to appreciate the beauty and richness of the Welsh language. From the melodic tones to the unique words and phrases, I was captivated by the language and its ability to convey emotions and thoughts in a way that English simply couldn’t.
As I grew older, I found myself gravitating towards friends who also spoke Welsh. There was an unspoken bond between us, a shared understanding and appreciation for our native tongue. We would often switch between Welsh and English in our conversations, depending on the topic or our mood. But there was something special about speaking Welsh with my friends. It felt like we were keeping a secret, a secret that only we could understand.
But it wasn’t just about the language itself. Speaking Welsh with my friends also meant connecting with our shared culture and heritage. We would often reminisce about our childhood memories of Eisteddfods (traditional Welsh festivals), singing in choirs, and learning traditional Welsh folk songs. These experiences brought us closer together and strengthened our bond as friends.
One of the most significant aspects of speaking Welsh with my friends is the sense of community it creates. In Wales, the Welsh language is not just a means of communication; it is a symbol of our national identity. When we speak Welsh, we are not just speaking to each other; we are also speaking to our ancestors, our land, and our culture. It is a way of honoring our roots and preserving our heritage for future generations.
But it’s not just about speaking Welsh with friends. I also find myself thinking in Welsh, especially when I am in a Welsh-speaking environment. It’s a natural process that happens without even realizing it. Thinking in Welsh allows me to fully immerse myself in the language and better understand its nuances and complexities. It also helps me to express myself in a more authentic and genuine way.
Thinking in Welsh has also broadened my perspective on the world. Being bilingual has given me the ability to see things from different angles and understand different cultures and ways of life. It has also opened up opportunities for me, such as studying abroad in a Welsh-speaking country and being able to communicate with locals in their native language. These experiences have enriched my life and broadened my horizons in ways I never thought possible.
I am proud to be a Welsh speaker, and I believe that Welsh is a language that should be celebrated and preserved. It is a language that has survived against all odds and continues to thrive in a world dominated by English. Speaking Welsh with my friends and thinking in Welsh has not only shaped my identity, but it has also given me a deeper appreciation for my culture and heritage.
In conclusion, Welsh is more than just a language; it is a way of life. Speaking Welsh with my friends and thinking in Welsh has not only strengthened my relationships and sense of community, but it has also broadened my perspective on the world. I am grateful to have been raised in a bilingual household and to have the opportunity to speak Welsh every day. I encourage everyone to embrace their native language and culture, as it is an essential part of who we are and where we come from.
