Language and connection

This past week, I had one of those moments where something I read ended up connecting to my real life in a way I didn’t expect. It all started with me reading an article about the Rosetta Stone, which I randomly stumbled upon, and its incredible role in connecting us to the ancient world. The article sparked something in me and consequently sent me down a rabbit hole and I couldn't help but draw some parallels to my own experience from earlier this week.

The Rosetta Stone

If you're not familiar with the Rosetta Stone, it's an ancient artifact that unlocked the mysteries of ancient Egypt. It’s a big stone tablet that was found centuries ago, by some Frenchmen if I remember correctly, covered in three different scripts: Greek, Egyptian hieroglyphs, and another Egyptian script known as demotic. At the time, no one could read Egyptian hieroglyphs, but because the Greek text could be understood it was used as a the key to crack the code and decipher the hieroglyphs.

What makes the Rosetta Stone so special is that it connected modern people to a culture that had been gone for thousands of years. By translating the ancient language, people at the time were able to learn so much more about the Egyptians—their beliefs, history, and daily lives. In a way, it was like opening a door to the past and hearing the voices of people who lived long before us.

A Personal Rosetta Stone Moment

As I read about the Rosetta Stone, I couldn’t help but think about a totally different but still powerful connection I experienced this week. I was working with a few German-speaking patients, and though I don’t speak German fluently, or at all, I found that using a few simple phrases made a huge difference in building rapport with them. I’d say things like Guten Morgen (Good morning), Wie geht es Ihnen? (How are you?), and even Könnten Sie blinken? (Could you blink?)—small things that showed I was trying to connect in their language.

I didn’t need to speak perfect German. Just the act of using those words was enough to show them that I was making an effort. And, honestly, it worked! Or atleast I think so. It was like I was speaking their language, and that small gesture helped build a connection between us that felt a lot more personal and meaningful.

Now, here’s the part that struck me: The way I was using language to connect with my patients made me think of the Rosetta Stone. Just as that ancient stone helped decode a forgotten language and open the door to the past, using German in my interactions with patients helped bridge the gap between us and fostered better communication. It wasn’t about being fluent or getting every word right—it was about showing that I cared enough to connect, to make that effort to meet them where they were.

The Bigger Picture: Language Bridges Gaps

Reading about the Rosetta Stone and reflecting on my week with the German-speaking patients really made me realize how powerful language can be. It’s not just about words—it’s about connection. Whether you're unlocking ancient mysteries or simply trying to make someone feel seen and heard, language has this magical way of bridging gaps between people.

So here’s my challenge to you (and, honestly, to myself too), next time you meet someone who speaks a different language why not learn a few words? Don’t stress about speaking fluently or getting it perfect. Just saying “hello” or “thank you” can make a huge difference. Plus, I’ve learned firsthand that it’s fun! Who knows, maybe you’ll have your own little Rosetta Stone moment and feel that instant connection.

Have a great week!

Euan