Dear Cafetalk Community,

hello! This is Lady Ayame. I hope you're enjoying the lovely autumn season. It's snowing in Canada, and I think it's here to stay for a while. It's nice and cozy indoors, so it's perfect for me to sit in front of the computer on Skype teaching English. I am very grateful to my many students who repeatedly take my lessons. It's always good to see you and talk to you in English!

I came across this Goalcast video that reminded me of my philosophy about learning a second language and how to get more fluent. Granted, the man in the story was bullied when he was in elementary school and was in fear for his safety. This torment and inner-turmoil became the impetus for him to learn English. He wasn't about to let the bullies get in the way of his dreams, especially after his mother made so many sacrifices for him. He grew up to be a successful millionaire and author in "English," mind you, and his name is Dan Lok.

Perhaps your situation is not as desperate as Dan's in the video, but I believe it takes that kind of determination and dedication. Are you willing to learn and memorize 5 to 10 English vocabulary words a day? Sometimes students get impatient and they want results immediately. In all honesty, learning another language takes time, energy, and effort. If you can learn about 5 to 10 words a day, I'm certain your ability to speak English will get better markedly.

At the same time, I want to encourage you as Dan Lok says in the video! "You can do it!" If you only put your mind to accomplishing another skill, you will succeed. It's a steep learning curve, but your English skills will continue to increase. That way, when you talk to a native English-speaker on Cafetalk, you will feel more confident and comfortable. I wish you all the best with your exciting journey to master the English language!

Thank you for reading my post! I wish you Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year!

Warmest regards,

Lady Ayame

(Patricia Ayame Thomson)