Viva Vitality: All I Want for Christmas is to be understood

By Tina Meggison on December 20, 2024.

Communication is everywhere. It’s essential to every part of life, shaping how we connect with others and even how we understand ourselves. From the moment we’re born until the day we pass, communication is at the heart of it all. But what happens when communication becomes a challenge?

As a Low German kid growing up in an “English” world, I often found myself navigating two different styles of communication. At home, our language was mostly Low German. In the outside world, it was all English. The difference was stark – not just in vocabulary but in how people communicated.

In English, there are countless ways to say the same thing, with subtle variations that can invite someone to share more details or clarify their thoughts. But translating those same phrases into Low German can be tricky – sometimes they all sound like the exact same question. This is something to keep in mind when using an interpreter, no matter the language.

The need to feel understood is universal. When someone truly listens and works to meet your needs through effective communication, it can feel like the world is a better place. But when communication breaks down – when needs aren’t understood or met – it can leave a person feeling frustrated, isolated, or even hopeless.

Having worked as an interpreter and Community Health Representative for over a decade, bridging these communication gaps has been my mission. It’s my hope that this work has brought a sense of understanding to both service providers and clients, creating connections that foster trust and mutual respect.

One universal form of communication that transcends all language barriers is body language-especially a smile. No matter how much of a language gap exists, a smile and an effort to understand can go a long way. Think about moments when you felt judged or like an inconvenience, whether with a family member or a stressed service provider. Suddenly, it becomes harder to communicate clearly. For newcomers accessing services in a new country, these feelings of anxiety or inadequacy can be constant. But a simple smile or a warm demeanour can make all the difference.

No matter what language or style we communicate in, we all have a role to play in bridging the gaps. A smile, a bit of patience and a willingness to understand can transform stressful moments into manageable ones. Let’s commit to treating others the way we want to be treated. In doing so, we can help create a world where everyone feels heard, valued, and – most importantly – understood.

Tina Meggison is a Low German interpreter and community health representative with Alberta Health Services