It’s no secret that learning to speak and read the Greek language can be difficult. You may even think that learning Greek will not be beneficial in your life. Certainly, the Greek language is not widespread, and it is not of general advantage for professional use.
But practical reasons aside, you might need to consider that sometimes we choose to learn languages and skills not only for practical reasons but for a deeper need for personal development. Think of the Greek language as a spiritual journey through greek culture, greek literature, and tradition that introduces you to a new way of thinking and living. I can assure you that reading and communicating in Greek is a whole new world offering all the aspects you need to see life differently.
So, taking Greek language lessons?
- Because it is the language that you speak with your soul and not only with your mind,
- Because every nuance of your feelings has different terminology. Different shades of sadness, joy, and anger can be put into words and find an outlet,
- Because “love” is divided into two words, “eros” and “love”, “eros” for sexual love and “love” for affection, since the Greek language follows life,
- Because the modern Greek language uses the exact same words and phrases that Plato or Aristotle used to think, Sofoklis and Evripidis used to speak about high ideals and values, Seferis and Elytis used to describe their country in their poetry,
- Because words like “philotimo”*, “meraki”*, “kefi”* cannot be explained in any other language, but if you learn them, understand them, and feel them, you can use them as a compass in your life,
- Because words serve not only daily communication but over all the timeless communication with people who have lived and spoken the same language for centuries,
- Because through the Greek language, you come closer to ancient Greek philosophy, understand the possibilities of the mind in-depth, and face your own abilities in thinking,
- Because you will discover talented poets who explored in detail the human soul, inspired people and gave them their new “Ithaca”** to fight for,
- Because the knowledge and deeper understanding of one of the oldest languages in the world is a spiritual journey through culture and literature, that will help you find a new “imaginary home” where you can feel comfortable and welcome
- Because the Greek language is a challenge, and only through challenges can we make mental progress.
Giovanna GR☀️
*philotimo meaning an attitude toward fellow humans and humanity at large showing empathy, compassion, and generosity without expecting anything in return
meraki meaning to do something with passion, from the heart, with absolute devotion, with undivided attention,
kefi meaning cheerfulness.
**”Ithaka”, K.P. Cavafy:
https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/51296/ithaka-56d22eef917ec
Ithaka symbolizes the purpose in life for every person