Link to my English course:
aleenarais.com


Link to the story covered in the video (for your repeat-after exercise):
aleenarais.com/story.pdf


Here's the story for a quick look:

A Lesson in Language and Resilience
It was my first journey abroad as an adult, I was traveling to Malaysia with my friends.
Our arrival was marked by the buzz of anticipation, a flurry of activity as we navigated through
the bustling airport. In the midst of this confusion, a simple mistake unfolded—one that would
test my courage in ways I hadn't anticipated. I was probably day dreaming looking at the
beautiful skyscrapers of the city of Kuala Lumpur, and something I had never expected of
myself, happened. I left my entire luggage on the bus that ferried us from the airport. The
realization struck like a bolt, I could see the bus moving away with my luggage and me standing
on the roadside, sweating at my predicament. I was desperately miserable.
The language was also a barrier.. My familiarity with English was of little comfort in a land where
most people spoke their native language, Malay. Yet, necessity breeds invention. With
determination, I managed to find the number of the bus service, my heart racing as I dialed the
numbers. Communicating my issue was a challenge. Each word was a step toward
understanding and being understood. Carefully choosing my words I explained what had
happened.
In the evening, as I was standing on the road to begin my small trip to the bus station, a kind
Malay lady offered a lift. I quickly hopped in thinking it would be easier for her to locate the
address. The journey to the bus station was quiet, a silent reflection on the kindness of
strangers and the unexpected turns of life. When I finally reclaimed my luggage, a big relief, a
heavy burden was lifted.
Returning to my room, the weight of embarrassment settled in. To admit my mistake, to share
this tale of forgetfulness with my friends was something I wasn't ready to face. And so, I
remained silent, my little adventure a secret chapter of my journey.
Rest of the trip went the way it was planned, no more surprises. A part of me believes this
incident added to the flavor of the overall experience. It is still fun to think about it.
As we navigate the complexities of new languages and cultures, let us remember that every
misstep is an opportunity for growth, and every challenge, a chance to discover the kindness
that transcends language barriers.
This story encapsulates not only a personal anecdote but also serves as a metaphor for the
journey of language learning, emphasizing resilience, adaptability, and the human connection.