If You Speak a Language Other Than English, Please Comment with ‘Thank You’ Using Your Language Below

“Thank you” is a powerful yet often neglected and not frequently used phrase in today’s fast-faced world. We tend to forget how such simple phrase could help other people feel appreciated or feel better.

When I moved to Singapore, I tried so hard to learn various languages (since I am situated in the country of melting pot of cultures). I tried to learn Malay, Tamil, Mandarin and Bahasa (Indonesia) and excited to learn many others. I have learned the importance of learning a word or two about other languages.

One night while having my late dinner at a restaurant, I’ve noticed that the lady who serves the food was quite in a bad mood. She was cleaning the table next to me and immediately moved to my direction to clean it as well. She was swift in collecting the used plates. Briefly glancing to me, she spoke to me in Mandarin. I was guessing she’s asking if I’m done, I told her in English that I was.

Then, told her Xiexie (Mandarin for ‘Thank You’).

Such a simple word. Yet, I noticed how mood her has changed. She immediately smiled to me and continued collecting the plates in a much more calm manner.

There are several other experiences where I’ve seen people’s mood change just because I speak their language. I may not be an expert in many languages but I think what’s important is to utter a simple gesture of gratitude and appreciation in other people’s own language.

If you happen to speak languages other than English, please help me out on my “Thank You” Project.

Please comment with “Thank you” using your own language in the comments section below. That way, when I speak to someone with other language, I could show them my appreciation – in their own language.

Thank you in advance!