A question we are frequently asked is, “what is the
language spoken in Namibia?”
The answer is multi-layered and goes something like
this:
The “national language” of Namibia is English.
Up until 1996 it was Afrikaans, a
language only spoken primarily in the countries of Namibia and South Africa.
Currently in 2012, there are approximately 28
tribal languages spoken, as well as Afrikaans and English and German.
The “English” part of that last sentence is a great
blessing to us because it made our transition here very simple….in the daily
life/living realm.
In the teaching realm...it’s a different
story.
Scott teaches in English, because that’s all he
knows…but he teaches 6 different groups, in different areas of the country,
with brothers and sisters from many different tribes.
Thankfully, God has provided a different brother in
each group, who speaks English and his own tribal language, and is able to
translate for him in each bible teaching group.
I remain in awe of God’s grace—to keep a “train of thought” going while
on “pause” for translation—whew...that takes some “absence of me, fullness of
you”, “your words, not mine”, “Holy Spirit speaking” kind of grace! And, God is faithful to give that to Scott—We
praise Him for that!
In the “family, friendships, living out the gospel
in our daily life” realm…well…kids are just plain smarty pants! They pick up things so quickly and really
enjoy different sounds and accents, etc…So, in mid-September of last year, we
realized both children were REALLY picking up Afrikaans as we were “out and
about”…which led Scott to do some research on language programs, and he found
this:
After the children…and I, by default, learned the
introductory program quickly, we ordered the full program.
I am so happy to say (we), really THEY are shocking
the pants off our Afrikaans speaking friends and acquaintances with their
ability to speak phrases, and understand what is spoken to them.
AND…there is A LOT of “R” rolling, and guttural “g”
sounds that go along with this language…and these two Southern U.S. born and
bred babies…are rockin’ some “R” rolling and “G” stuff! We are so proud of them…and are hoping maybe
they can teach their parents to do those tricks too!
So, for now I leave you with a big ol’ Lekker Slaap
and Goeie Naand from Tsumeb!!!
