cartagena trip report part 3

[Ralph]

... in response to Learning Spanish, posted by Patrick on Jun 16, 2001

Learn Spanish in ADDITION to the rest of the process. I don't understand where the assumption that one can speak decent Spanish precludes being a good person etc.

You are absolutely right that 2 years is certainly enough time to become somewhat profficient in the language.
Even though the woman must learn English if she is going to live in the states, having a spouse that she can talk to in her language will help a great deal

[Houndog]

... in response to Learning Spanish, posted by Patrick on Jun 16, 2001

Patrick and others,

You(collectively) can ommit and/or twist this in any direction. I never said don't learn spanish ! I'm not going to follow along chasing strays after this reply.

I think it's important to communicate. I think learning Spanish is a wonderful idea and agree that learning along the way is possible. Discussing things about work or how deep the ocean is or where the edge of the universe might be with a spouse is fine. Some might "have to" have those conversations immediately, others may possess the "patience" to wait and deal with other aspects of this process first.  

However bemoaning failure because of language barriers is simply laying unfounded fear in the minds of guys that have every right to go see for themselves if this is for them and what they really want. It is actually beneficial IMO for guys to face challeges in this proccess in order for each to be able to evaluate if ones own choices and directions in life can be met successfully. Just as tests will be important to see if the woman has what it takes in the face of adversity and challenges.

HD

[Traveler]

... in response to Re: Learning Spanish, posted by Houndog on Jun 16, 2001

2 or 3 years right.  yet you didn't even know that poquito means "a little" whereas pequeño is the correct word for small.  don't make excuses. do your homework  its obvious that many guys in this forum don't speak Spanish.  it seems sufficient, and frequent, to simply go to an agency pick a few girls find one that is willing to go out with you, maybe write some letters visit Colombia a few times, and go through the beauracracy with Immigration.  however, I ask myself where is the real communication.  not that you do, but how do you discuss deep personal issues, opinions, philosphy, familily histories, personal dreams to this person.

I know it happens frequently that a gringo goes to Colombia and marries a woman he can't even talk to, but its something I wouldn't do.  

how do you "know" she is the "one" as you put it.  you spewed alot BS on this board.  let's hear some details on the selection process.  on your date.  How did you know???  what's her favorite color??

[Houndog]

... in response to you've been in this process for how long..., posted by Traveler on Jun 16, 2001

you're even more of an idiot than jedi...LOL..

[jediknight]

... in response to Re: cartagena trip report part 3, posted by Houndog on Jun 14, 2001

I agree that there are many guys that head south who are very serious and quite capable of handling any kind of problems that may develop with limited spanish skills. If my post came off as trying to discourage those that don't know spanish, it wasn't my intention. I think that just as a colombiana is expected to learn english over time, we should begin to learn their culture and language asap and continue to learn during and after the process of finding a wife, not just a little or enought to get by, but strive to learn as much as possible.

[Edge]

... in response to Re: Re: cartagena trip report part 3, posted by jediknight on Jun 15, 2001

before you go, as much as possible, will also aid you during your search as well as down the road when you bring her here.  The point I have tried to make to PL is that this is very important.  I would not minimize how much easier this process is if you can speak español.  It is worth the effort.  At least to me it was.  Other people may have other views.

[Houndog]

... in response to Re: Re: cartagena trip report part 3, posted by jediknight on Jun 15, 2001

Of course we should learn about them, their country, their culture, etc.

That's not what you said or what I replied to.

HD

[Ralph]

... in response to Re: Re: cartagena trip report part 3, posted by jediknight on Jun 15, 2001

Yes the women need to learn English ASAP to ease the loneliness and homesickness.

Not having anyone around that speaks their language will be MUCH harder if their husbands don't at least speak it! If you want to help your wife through the hard part, knowing some Spanish helps.

[JunFanTX]

... in response to cartagena trip report part 3, posted by jediknight on Jun 14, 2001

you are doing well 'young Luke'...the force is strong with you, my young Jedi...

Seriously, from what I've read, you did a perfect job and handled yourself well.  The first family meeting can be a nervous experience, that is until you meet them.  I, and you, have found that the Colombian people go out of their way to make you feel comfortable.  Soooooooo, which girl is gonna be?

Later,
Mike

www.sparhard.com/colombia.htm