Bedrock

In yesterday’s contemplation, I shared an interesting observation on language.

Today, I want to introduce yet another one:

Language is far more than just communication as we think of it.

When we think of language, we think of English, German, Spanish, etc. But there are actually many other types of languages.

Children have their own unique language; mechanics have their own, too; doctors do, as well. I believe myself to be somewhat well-versed in the language of children, but when I hear two doctors speaking with each other about medical issues, I am lost. I have no idea what they are talking about. I am only able to comprehend what their words mean when they turn to me and translate them into my language.

There is even more to language than this, though.

And this is where language moves beyond how we commonly think of it…

It seems to me that language likely forms the very bedrock of perception, thought, expression, and understanding.

Let me explain…

As a writer, I have found that I am confined, both in my thoughts and in my writing, by my limited understanding of language.

After all, could I ever conceive of an idea if I did not have the linguistic framework to support its structure in my mind?

Could I ever express an idea if I did not have the linguistic tools to accurately describe the thoughts that circle in my mind?

I think not.

Perhaps mastery of language is the prerequisite for profound and novel thought.

And certainly, mastery of language is also the prerequisite for the accurate expression of thought.

If these observations stand true, then language is far more powerful than I had previously assumed.

Since it is language that makes complex thought and the expression thereof possible, it is an individual’s level of mastery of language that determines the border of that which is conceivable to him or her.

Through language, we see the world, and through language, we share with the world.

Consequently, I believe that language plays a pivotal role in one’s pursuit of truth and in one’s greater understanding of reality.

Perception, thought, expression, understanding … language forms the bedrock of it all.