In a world where communication often bridges cultures and fosters connections, two inspiring stories emerge from very different contexts, yet share a core theme: the transformative power of language. Both Doug Brouwer and Valeria Moore demonstrate how language learning and teaching can profoundly impact personal growth and community engagement.
This week marks the release of Doug Brouwer’s book, The Traveler’s Path: Finding Spiritual Growth and Inspiration Through Travel, reflecting his own experiences with language and culture. Brouwer, who started his academic journey by learning Latin in high school, later found himself back in a language classroom at the age of sixty, determined to learn German while living in a quaint village near Zürich, Switzerland.
His motivation was practical; proficiency in one of Switzerland's four national languages is required for obtaining a work permit. Thus, every Tuesday evening for a year, Brouwer attended German classes, immersing himself in an unfamiliar language taught only in German. “The teacher used simple language, but it was a language none of us knew,” he recalls. The experience was filled with laughter and mistakes, but it was essential for adapting to life in a new country.
Brouwer not only attended classes but integrated language learning into his daily life. He read German-language newspapers, listened to beginner podcasts during his train rides, and utilized apps like Duolingo and Babbel for extra support. He found that while these tools were helpful, complete immersion truly accelerated his language acquisition. “Full immersion is the only effective method to master a new language,” he stressed.
His journey is not solely about mastering German; rather, it highlights the humility of relying on the kindness of others in a foreign environment. In shops, he was often met with, “Kann ich Ihnen helfen?”—prompting plenty of embarrassing, yet character-building moments when clerks switched to English upon seeing his bewildered face. Yet, asking for help also kindled connections and friendships.
Living in Europe, Brouwer observed a common trend: many individuals, particularly youth, were fluent in multiple languages. “Younger people learned English out of necessity,” he noted, acknowledging the role English plays in international business and academia. At Zürich's prominent educational institutions, the Federal Institute of Technology Zürich (ETH) and the University of Zürich, English dominates the curriculum.
Moreover, Brouwer's experience in language learning extends beyond personal development into the realm of spirituality and community. He employed language as a tool for fostering hospitality during worship services. On Pentecost, he invited congregation members to recite “Come, Holy Spirit” in various languages, mirroring the biblical account in Acts 2, which celebrates understanding across languages. The event became a touching reminder of unity in diversity.
On the other side of the world in Loachapoka, Alabama, Valeria Moore serves as a beacon of encouragement and support for English Language Learners at Loachapoka Elementary School. Originally from Mexico, Moore understands the challenges of adapting to a new language and culture firsthand. “That was also my journey when we moved from Mexico to the United States,” she reflects on her own experiences learning English.
Having spent her earlier years in New Mexico and Texas, Moore now embraces her role as a teacher, working diligently with students from grades K-6 for the past five years. Her deep personal connection to her students’ struggles fosters a nurturing environment where they can thrive. “It’s about supporting them in everything that they do,” she emphasizes.
This year, her dedication to teaching earned her the title of Loachapoka Elementary School’s Teacher of the Year for 2025—a recognition of her commitment to making a significant difference in her students’ lives. “They need somebody who is going to be there on their life journey,” she declares, showcasing her passion for mentoring students beyond academics.
Moore’s journey highlights the powerful impact of educators who possess empathy and understanding. Her own path, from learning English to becoming a teacher, mirrors Brouwer's story in showing that language is not merely a set of words; it is a bridge to connection, understanding, and community.
These narratives serve as powerful testimonies of how learning and teaching languages can change lives. Brouwer’s spiritual reflections and Moore’s personal dedication unify the importance of language within both educational and communal contexts. They illustrate that language learning is an enduring journey—one that transcends borders and touches the hearts of many.
As we navigate our own language journeys, may we remember the bonds language can forge and the understanding it can foster. It’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, the quest for knowledge, and the inherent beauty of diversity.
