I like that..."multiple languages means living multiple lives". That's how I feel.

I was lucky enough to be growing up with three languages and then added three more later on.

And it's true - I feel differently, depending in which language I speak. As Tom pointed out, you learn about other cultures.

I usually said that if you want to truly understand a country and its people, you HAVE to speak their language. You literally FEEL the energy of a nation, its history, mentality...through the language as you use it.

I avoided speaking my mother tongue for a long time (Slovenian) as an adult. Why? Because it was too much burdened with a heavy history, my own of course.

German I always loved but when I speak German, I also feel more philosophical right away and have the need to organise my life.

Croatian and Serbian have a relaxed tone and something juicy.

My French isn't that great but when I read an article in French, I feel sophisticated.

And when I speak Spanish, it's connected with the memories of Mexico and the great friends I have there, it's always warm and a bit mystical. No wonder there are writers like Borges or painters like Frida Kahlo.

Sure, my languages have ensured me work many times over and it's been the best time invested into learning a skill.

But more importantly, I've always felt closer to the people of a country because I spoke their language and was able to feel their history and general way of thinking.

Living in other countries (not just travelling through), and learning languages I find is the thing which contributes most to a world peace...

Understanding each other is key.

And understanding goes deeper than speaking the same language, we need to feel what the others possibly feel...