Tag: humiliation

  • Languages, Humiliation and Carrots

    Languages, Humiliation and Carrots

    Years ago, we lived in Barcelona, Spain, learning the language little by little. Most people spoke Catalan, making Spanish their second language. Very few people spoke English, which provided us with an excellent opportunity to learn the language. And to die to ourselves. On a daily basis. Learning a new language is humiliating. You babble…

  • The Uneasy Bliss of Growth

    The Uneasy Bliss of Growth

    I got a glimpse of his expression just as the accident occurred. Big eyes, open mouth, his body rigid as he prepared for the impact. He tipped over and the pedal slammed into his knee before scraping the shinbone. I rushed toward him as I listened. Not a sound. He was sitting on the ground…