Lost in Translation
A flashcard from my online TEFL class teaching about emotions.
How are you feeling?
This week, I’m sharing a glimpse of my journey in Bali while teaching English, a revelation in Los Angeles from the same work and the songs that are currently on repeat as I explore translating emotions.
The Bali Balance
Maya Lynne sitting in a chair enjoying her coffee.
It was nice to do my practicum here, as I knew all of my students would be newer to English. I understood my ability to teach needed to be productive and clear. At the same time, I was also learning Indonesian from them. I believe the equal give and take created less concern for us making mistakes and more excitement with sharing and communicating.
What was so beautiful about this is that we were all learning and teaching one another. People communicate better when there is a balance is roles. It’s one of the reasons I love working with adult learners. I always make sure that I am open to learning from them, as well. Knowledge is power and the better we can communicate with each other, the better we will understand our differences.
I’m learning that I thrive in environments where I feel safe enough to share and show my feelings. I know a mask and/or muzzle might be required. That’s why I love teaching my students and then having them teach or review a word or two with me each week. It’s important to feel safe enough to reach new milestones and to make mistakes.
Environmental Connection
Scrabble blocks that spell the words mental health.
It’s hard to heal where you were harmed. That’s one reason I travel so frequently. Each location teaches me something new about myself.
There is an LA Maya Lynne who is quite introverted and doesn’t smile in public a lo, because people either think I’m flirting with them or that I’m crazy. Then there’s Bali Maya Lynne, loud, boisterous and super smiley. Or Mexico Maya Lynne, fun, playful and able to balance work and play in the same day.
So I had to ask: which version of me do I truly love? Why have I described myself as I have? Does this affect, not only my personality, but my teaching style?
So tell me, do you behave differently based on your environment? Is it out of fear of being misunderstood, lost in translation or just true immersion?
I Am What I Am
As I was driving and listening to a Spotify playlist, a song came on that I hadn’t saved. It reminded me of how easily we sabotage relationships when we fear manipulation from others.When we sense someone or something is not true in its integrity or intention, we armor up.
That song brought back a familiar lesson of how quickly toxic traits and insecurities can ruin amazing connections before they even begin to bloom. Before they even get the chance to prove us wrong.
Another song that came to mind is a reminder to continue to shine through no matter what you’re going through until you break through. Here’s a little inspiration:
I Am Light by India.Arie song on YouTube
The energy around you is a reflection of how you feel within. Does it make you feel courageous or keep you playing small? What part of your environment is supporting your growth? What part is suffocating it?
If you’re feeling stuck, misunderstood, or lost in translation, maybe it’s not you. Maybe it’s your environment. Maybe it’s time to try a new one. even just for a little while.
If you’re ready to explore a new rhythm, a new energy or a new version of you, I’d love to help. Book an Energy Balancing Session, shop Glow face oil, or join us on the next Re-Luxe® Retreat location.
Because you deserve to live in truth.
Not translation.
