The Messy Beauty of Bilingualism

Reminder: 🌞 Summer Spanish Classes Start June 9th!

Whether you’re just getting started or continuing your Spanish journey, our summer session begins June 9th. Flexible, fun, and focused on real communication. In-person and Zoom options available. Come join us!

In our Spanish Book Club, we’re currently reading Cuando era puertorriqueña by Esmeralda Santiago— a powerful memoir about growing up in Puerto Rico and moving to the United States when she was 13 years old. The book has sparked some great conversations, especially around identity, memory, and the languages we use to tell our stories.

Cover of the book "Cuando era puertorriqueña" by Esmeralda Santiago, a memoir that explores bilingualism and identity

One moment that really stood out to me (and to the students in our group) was when Esmeralda reflects on how she now speaks Spanish. Even though it’s her first language, she explains that English often sneaks in — and she occasionally uses Spanglish. One example she gives is the word “mopear” for “to mop.”

That kind of blending is something I see all the time. My Spanish-speaking friends do it. My bilingual students do it. And it makes total sense. When you’ve lived or experienced something in one language — whether it’s a specific place, a task, or a feeling — it often feels most natural to express it using words from that language.

So yes, we mix. We code-switch. We create verbs like “mopear” because that’s the word that feels right.

And that’s not wrong.

That’s bilingualism in action.

It’s easy to think of language as something rigid, with clear lines between right and wrong. But real-life communication is much messier, and much more human. So if you find yourself blending languages or using a mix of Spanish and English, don’t feel bad. Feel proud.

You’re navigating the world with two (or more!) languages.

That’s not confusion; it’s a superpower.

Reminder: 🌞 Summer Spanish Classes Start June 9th!

 Whether you’re just getting started or continuing your Spanish journey, our summer session begins June 9th. Flexible, fun, and focused on real communication. In-person and Zoom options available. Come join us!