Tonight was convocation for the language schools that are starting now. I think it's just Arabic and Japanese. The vice president of the language schools gave a very lengthy speech which, while at times I was like, why are you giving a synopsis of a book about a Russian interpreter, was overall really engaging and funny.
He wrapped up the speech by talking about the Language Pledge we were all about to take, and quoting Obi Wan Kenobi, sort of.
"The Pledge is what gives the Language School its power. It's an energy field created by all students and faculty. It surrounds us and penetrates us. It binds the Language Schools together."
Basically, speaking English after today is like going to the Dark Side. He got a good laugh out of that.
It felt pretty daunting, sitting in an auditorium with 300 or so students, knowing we're all about to plunge into awkward communication for a while. It feels like we're all going to be without light or something.
The closest comparison I can make is going on a silent retreat. I imagine some will go crazy. Well, here goes!
He wrapped up the speech by talking about the Language Pledge we were all about to take, and quoting Obi Wan Kenobi, sort of.
"The Pledge is what gives the Language School its power. It's an energy field created by all students and faculty. It surrounds us and penetrates us. It binds the Language Schools together."
Basically, speaking English after today is like going to the Dark Side. He got a good laugh out of that.
It felt pretty daunting, sitting in an auditorium with 300 or so students, knowing we're all about to plunge into awkward communication for a while. It feels like we're all going to be without light or something.
The closest comparison I can make is going on a silent retreat. I imagine some will go crazy. Well, here goes!
