Writer's Carvings: Recent Episodes
Maki Utsumi
"Write with me, little pieces that sound like YOU." I shared an Instagram post with a small group of English language learners in April 2020. Many inner writers have found a way out from anxious minds and their untold stories resonated with others. This podcast is where you can learn not only English but also various voices and insights of people from across the world. What's your story? (Send me your story in English: writerscarvings@gmaill.com)
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If you learn Japanese, join our speaking club "Kotoizu."
Instagram @kotoizu_nihongo
[Transcript]
Itadakimasu
Two thin sticks lie horizontally to divide the sacred area and you. When you pick them up and pray, they will be a bridge for you to receive the blessings.
「いただきます。」（"Itadakimasu.")
Every day, many people pray before eating. Prayers before meals vary from culture to culture, but they probably share the same feeling. "Itadakimasu" is something I say before eating, and I don't think I'm crazy to say that this is one of the shortest prayers before meals in the world.
"Itadakimasu" is sometimes translated into English as "Let's eat." I don't say it's wrong. Mind you, when I say it, I feel much more humbled.
Itadakimasu literally means "I'll receive." It's a humble form of "moraimasu (/morau)," which also means to receive. We use the word when we partake of something from strangers, elder people, or people with higher positions. So we say it not only before we eat but also when we receive gifts.
It is said that the phrase came from what ancient people in Japan did when they received gifts. They used to lift gifts above their head to show respect and appreciation to the givers. "Itadaki" means the top of something, and the itadaki of a body is the head -- we don't call the head "itadaki" now, though.
When we say itasadakimasu before a meal, we think of the blessing of nature. When you have food on the table, it means that the earth and nature didn't get upset. The land gave us valuable gifts: fish, meat, vegetables, fruits, etc. Each has a soul/life, and we take it in to survive. They sacrifice their lives to let us live. How can we not put our hands together and be grateful?
At the same time, our thoughts go to all the people associated until a meal ends up in front of us. Farmers, fishers, cooks, people who serve the table, etc. There are so many stories behind a single meal. They let us live, too.
In Japan, we have a custom of sharing food with gods and ancestors. We make offerings to Buddhist altars (or/and) Shinto altars, and then we eat or drink the offerings afterward. The offerings are sanctified. In Japan, sacred things are usually divided from the world we're living in. When you come to Japan, you'll see Shinto entrance gates called Torii and sacred Shinto ropes called Shimenawa. Those show a boundary between the sacred area and the secular area.
In fact, you'll see a little border on your dining table, too! We place chopsticks horizontally between a meal and us. The side of giving (the sacred area) and receiving (this world). They are divided first, but after you pick up your chopsticks and say itadakimasu, you will be able to cross the boundary and receive the gift, which keeps you alive.
After itadakimasu has become "Let's eat," we've lost something really big. Japan produces an astronomical amount of food waste every year, and some people argue that they don't have to say itadakimasu because they pay for food. Since the phrase is very implicit -- we don't say what we appreciate but think of it -- I, as a parent, have a responsibility to teach my son what it means.
Do you pray or do anything before/after eating?
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[Transcript]
"Are you go to the beach?"
This sentence served as a wake-up call for me. When I went to an English Cafe to practice English, there was a woman who was really engaging in a conversation, and then I heard her say, "Are you go to the beach?"
I knew she meant, "Did you go to the beach?" because the teacher she was talking to answered, "I didn't." Their conversation flowed nicely, and they were having so much fun. I was there, noticing some of her errors... being silent as the dead. I shut my mouth because I didn't want to make any mistakes in front of those people. Watching them loving their conversation, I asked myself, "What on earth am I doing here, really?"
She was a great storyteller making some chocolate-covered mistakes. I was just voiceless grammar police giving herself lemons.
Which person would you want to talk with?
Now my goal is to become a better communicator. Today, I'm going to share several things to bear in mind.
1) Don't be your own grammar police all the time.
Self-correction is wonderful, but I hope, from time to time, you give yourself a break to just have fun talking to your friends in English.
2)"Fluent?" No, "Whether you were understood or not."
"Fluent or not" is so vague. Check if you were understood by your partner(s) instead. Find what you can improve for the next time.
3) Organize your thoughts on various topics.
You can't say anything about what you don't know. Writing is great to organize your thoughts. Write and see what's in your brain. Make it a habit.
4) Be a good listener.
Listening is important to become a good communicator. I love watching interviews because I can learn how hosts respond to guests. Carefully listen to your conversation partner.
5) Recharge your energy in your comfort zone!
I replenish my energy in a safe place to get out of my comfort zone. Get ready for challenges with the right people. Visit a place where you feel comfortable talking in English. Find someone who always makes you feel good about yourself.
6) Learn from your favorite speaker.
Think about what makes you like him/her and add it to your speech.
Enjoy!
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This is what I wrote two years ago. Today's my husband's birthday. Happy birthday, Hide.
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[Transcript]
Gratitude
I've been staring at my laptop screen for about 30 minutes while listening to my son saying random things. But finally, my fingers have decided to type.
I found it so hard to write about my husband. Is it because I'm afraid of sounding cheesy? Or, maybe because there are no amount of words that could accurately describe how grateful I am to him.
Dear Hide,
I clearly remember when we first met. I don't care about whether or not destiny is true in love, but strangely, I remember the day.
You were freakin' weird.
But I knew we'd be friends, and we've become best friends.
Earthquakes often remind me of the time when you bought and relished a roasted sweet potato during the aftermath of 3.11. I got so annoyed at that time, but, in retrospect, we needed that little comfort food back then, and thank you for giving me half.
I know you've taught silly things to Haru, and now I have to worry that he might do or say those things in kindergarten. He enjoys seeing me upset when he does what you taught. It's your fault, and I hate that those things make me laugh.
While you were away for the whole week a few weeks ago, Haru woke up and screamed, "Daddy! Daddy!" every morning. He always wonders if he can take a bath with you. You're his hero and mine.
Lying on the floor, we giggle together: our stupid jokes and songs are what my happiness looks like.
Your letter got me out of the darkest time, and I'm thankful that I spend every day with you and our boy.
I'm grateful for the countless things that you've done for me. Without you, I'd stay still, and no growth would happen. You're the only one that I can show the little Darth Vader in me --"Little?" you may wonder.
I asked you, "Do you remember when we first met?"
You said no.
Damn.
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[Anniversary Special]
📹Video Series: What door has English opened for you?
Martina
@_mollyverse_
@imollyhere
Martina’s creativity is really something! She’s good at acting, coordinating outfits, and amplifying the fun part of language learning. I’m sure a lot of hard work is hidden behind all of her posts. Here, I want to show respect to her energetic work.
She spreads good vibes in the community. If you haven’t talked to her, I’ll encourage you to interact with her. You’ll have a lovely conversation.
👉Follow her!
@_mollyverse_
@imollyhere
Youtube
@mollyverse28
https://www.youtube.com/@mollyverse28
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[Anniversary Special]
📹Video Series: What door has English opened for you?
Mirabelle
@lessecretsdemira
Mirabelle is one of the most dedicated learners I know! Sometimes she joins my group calls from her office before working. Other times she stays up late to join it. I’m always impressed and appreciate her support.
She’s willing to share stories about what she cares about. I encourage you to connect with her. I’m sure her positive energy will make you smile :)
👉Follow her!
Instagram
@lessecretsdemira
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[Anniversary Special]
📹Video Series: What door has English opened for you?
Vika
@engvick_
Vika really knows what English learners are going through. She is so attentive that she anticipates our struggles and challenges. You know what I’m talking about when you see her IG posts.
She organized great tips for you and has your back when you feel lost in your English journey.
If you need a place you can fall back on, follow Vika. She will bring more fun and pleasure to your learning journey!
👉Follow her!
@engvick_
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[Anniversary Special]
📹Video Series: What door has English opened for you?
Caro
@englishbedohave
I’ve created some challenges and activities as Writer’s Carvings so far. Behind every single challenge I launched, she was there for me. Most people don’t know this, but every time I come up with new ideas, I tend to hold myself back from making them happen at first, but she always gives me a gentle but powerful push I need to get them out there in the community.
Without Caro, I would have kept my ideas in mind and not met you. I can't thank her enough for all that she has done for me.
I highly recommend connecting with her!
👉Follow her!
@englishbedohave
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📹Video Series: What door has English opened for you?
Budi
@gistandlife
Budi always lifts my mood up when I talk to her. She’s very friendly and willing to share her interesting life stories.
She supports many English learners in her Facebook community by harnessing her communication skills and conscientiousness. You’ll find fun activities and helpful resources there.
Also, if you need advice on social media management, contact her! She’ll be there for you to overcome your struggles.
👉Follow her!
@gistandlife
English Speaking Club
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1021260745197457/
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[Anniversary Special]
📹Video Series: What door has English opened for you?
Tchales
@soll_podcast_
@soll_community
@nh_english_meetup
Tchales and I recorded our conversation when we talked to each other for the first time in the summer of 2020. He invited me to his podcast channel “Stories of Language Learners.” I really appreciated him giving me a chance to challenge myself.
He’s one of the people I’m always looking forward to collaborating with. And we hang out in each other’s community, and he always greatly supports our community members.
If you haven’t listened to his podcast, check it out today. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
👉Follow him!
Stories of Language Learners Podcast
@soll_podcast_
SOLL Community
@soll_community
His meetup group (Brazil)
@nh_english_meetup
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[Anniversary Special]
📹Video Series: What door has English opened for you?
Dainora
@theglobalcitizenoftheworld
Dainora is someone who gives you so much inspiration constantly. I’m sure there are a lot of people who have got inspired by her. She is such a loving person! We all agree with that.
I really admire her for her beautiful content, passion for learning, and caring heart and many more. She gives her all when I ask for her help.
She’s been sharing the true beauty of UAE. Don’t miss her posts @theglobalcitizenoftheworld!
👉Follow her!
@theglobalcitizenoftheworld
@englishmilestones
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[Anniversary Special]
📹Video Series: What door has English opened for you?
Jesus
@jessuss.mtz
Jesus is a huge contributor to my project. I met him in 2022. Since then, we’ve been sharing our challenges and struggles, exchanging our thoughts by writing, and having each other’s back.
He shares a lot of stories on TikTok, and I’m sure that his stories will resonate with you because he speaks from experience. Don’t miss all the good stuff he’s shared. You’ll thank me later.
👉Follow him!
Instagram
@jessuss.mtz
TikTok
@jessussmtz
https://www.tiktok.com/@jessussmtz
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[Anniversary Special]
📹Video Series: What door has English opened for you?
Eni @eni.englishjourney
Eni is one of the most delightful people I know! She always spreads incredible positive energy in the communities she helps. One of many things that I like about her is she’s willing to discuss not only fun things but also issues a lot of people tend to avoid, which need to be discussed. She’s been motivating me since I met her for the first time.
Eni is a content creator. Her educational posts will surely spice things up in your language learning. Check them out!
👉Follow her!
Youtube "English Journey with Eni"
https://www.youtube.com/@englishjourneywitheni
@eni.englishjourney
Communities Eni contributes to.
English Takeover Community
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Englishtakeover/
The Influence Community
https://www.facebook.com/groups/fluencychallenge/
https://hadarshemesh.com/influency-community/
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[Anniversary Special]
📹Video Series: What door has English opened for you?
Intan
@intandevianna
@intandevianna_
@englishwithintandeviana
If it were not for her help, Writer’s Carvings wouldn’t exist today. She’s been there from the get-go. I met Intan at the beginning of 2020 (She was feverish when I talked to her for the first time! How dedicated!)
Her writing always speaks to me, and I’m a big fan of it. I’m so thankful that we can encourage and support each other to pursue our language teaching careers together.
I’m looking forward to our next collaboration!
👉Follow her!
@intandevianna
@intandevianna_
@englishwithintandeviana
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[Anniversary Special]
📹Video Series: What door has English opened for you?
Nayana @journeys_of_nayana
She makes me believe that consistent practice will surely pay off. When I feel lazy to practice English, she’s one of the people I cherish who show up and share beautiful stories. I’m so fortunate to witness her journey progress.
Don’t miss her travel vlog posts on her Youtube channel “Nayana’s journeys.” You’ll enjoy the beauty of Sri Lanka. Highly recommended.
👉Follow her!
Nayana’s journeys
https://www.youtube.com/@nayanarupika1988/videos
@journeys_of_nayana
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Something clicked when I watched one of the videos that Laura shared in the English Takeover Community. I knew we would be great friends!
Her stories always resonate with me and I love how she sees things.
She shares amazing poems on her IG account. Her writing is unique, vulnerable, and authentic. I love her work! She’s one of my writing buddies.
👉Follow her!
@to_to_ro__78
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Whenever I read her stories, they move me to the core. She’s intelligent and has inner strength. She told me she went through a lot in the past, but she’s resilient enough to get back up and keeps supporting people around her.
I’ve got so much inspiration and learned from her how to go about life. I’m very lucky that I got to know her :)
👉Follow her!
@trindademgloria
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[Anniversary Special]
📹Video Series: What door has English opened for you?
With Alisson @alissoneudes
Our next guest is my good friend Alisson. I met him in 2020, and whenever I talk to him, I laugh so hard until I get sweaty💦
He’s one of the organizers of the English Takeover Community, and he’s striving for creating a safe environment for them.
Check out the English Takeover community on Facebook if you’re there. Reach out to Alisson, and have a good laugh while practicing English. There are always smiles around him.
👉Follow him!
The English Takeover Community
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Englishtakeover/
@alissoneudes
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I met Olya during one of the writing challenges I created and I was fascinated by her stories.
She is an amazing English instructor as well as a great writer. As I interacted with her, I learned how hard she worked for her students. She’s full of great ideas and professionalism.
Olya is going to run an English-speaking club "News Room" with her friend. Don’t miss it and sign up! The link is below.
👉Follow her!
Speaking Club “News Room"
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc28HKiiwYdKHLAt237k9fvHGFiaSPCnwJjn85-EcMtEnboZA/viewform
@oprepodobnaya_elt
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I launched Writer's Carvings in April 2020. To celebrate our anniversary, I asked Barbara about her English journey.
I met her in 2020, and we worked on a project where we created a challenge for language learners with some other friends. I was amazed by the ideas and thoughts. She's a fountain of knowledge. We have been supporting each other since we met.
Check out her Youtube channel "Breaking Brain." She's shared very insightful videos, and I'm sure you'll find some interesting topics to discuss with your friends.
👉Follow her!
Youtube Channel Breaking Brain
https://www.youtube.com/@brainrespectandfreedom
https://www.instagram.com/barbara_dlugajczyk/
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Join us!
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[Transcript]
Dad
When I was little, I'd often find myself in front of a calendar. I counted how many days there were left until my dad came back home.
My dad is a farmer, so he always worked outside, but I always knew where I had to go to find him. Expect for winter. At that time, I didn't know why he was not around in winter. I cannot recall how he left home. He was gone without me realizing it.
I wasn't born with a silver spoon in my mouth. It wasn't until much much later that I found out that he went away to do construction work because he was the only breadwinner in my family and tried to make ends meet. In my hometown, we have a lot of snow in winter, and everything freezes. Most farmers take a break, but he couldn't afford one.
I was a daddy girl; I counted days every day, wishing he could have come back home after finishing counting. My mum was beside me, smiling, but I don't know how she really felt beside me at that time.
I grew up without worrying about anything thanks to my parents. I’m as old as they were. I’m trying my best, but I always wonder if I’m doing well like them. They are my heroes.
And today is a special day. Happy birthday, Dad.
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Living among the hustle and bustle of the world, we overlook a lot of things. It isn't until when we come across some life-changing moments that we realize how much we take for granted. Epiphanies that we come upon will stay with us and help us to navigate our ways.
Today, Alisson shared one of the inspirational moments in his life, which opened up his eyes and encouraged him to reflect on what he was doing back then. I'm sure you'll be inspired by it, too.
Connect with Alisson!
Instagram: @alissoneudesAlisson is one of the admins of the English Takeover Facebook Community!
Join the community
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Join us!
Subscribe to our newsletter Writer's Carvings Atelier if you're curious about our activities.
We have mini-challenges, content creation, and much more!
https://subscribepage.io/writerscarvingsatelier
Instagram @writers_carvings
[Transcript]
New things are scariest before you start them. Changes are so loud, especially when you care about them. So, you might end up covering your ears and getting away. Can you relate?
I'm a huge worrier, so preparation’s been my bestie. I never started something new when I felt unprepared. That's me. But I came to realize that this trait has a drawback in some way.
In the last two years, I launched some projects. Although these were hobby projects, I've learned something significant: the more you wait to start, the more you get worried and the longer you worry. I was terrified before launching my projects, but I could manage them. It took some time to get used to the new rides, but I was alright. That realization helped me stop prolonging my worry time.
At the end of last year, I started tutoring some Japanese learners and English learners. Before I did it, I was in two minds. Am I ready for this? I felt so unprepared and inexperienced, so I gravitated towards my bestie, "preparation." With hindsight, I was daunted because, in the back of my mind, I felt teaching was the shoes I was meant to wear. I was prolonging the fear of starting something new by messing around with courses and books. But the thing was: however many courses I took, however many books I read, nothing gave me enough confidence to start. Then I noticed. Four years of education, teacher's license, TESOL training, two years of teaching experience... None of them made me feel ready. Am I ever going to feel ready?
My husband once told me, “Get a good sleep, and do it already.” I’m no longer sure why he said it to me, and I’m 100% sure that he doesn’t remember it either. I was probably putting off something important back then, and he was sick of it. But I was empowered by that mantra no one remembered. Also, my hobby projects assured me that if I start something, I’ll be able to manage. Confidence comes after you try your best.
Lessons never fail to make me nervous, but I've been gaining confidence in teaching by teaching and overcoming challenges every day. I hit 500 lessons at the beginning of this month, and I teach every weekday. I've never felt satisfied like this with what I do.
Preparation is crucial. I don’t say, “Do it now, forget preparation.” NO. I have faith in prep time. But if you keep pushing back something important for a long time that is more than necessary, do it already. We can't take tomorrow for granted. You don't have to get to where you want to be with one huge step. Take a small step towards it and see what will happen. I’m sure the small step won't kill you. And it's alright if you don’t excel at something right off the bat.
Changes are intimidating, and your mind sometimes underestimates your skills and knowledge. You might worry that you're still not good enough. If that’s happening to you, find a mentor, friend, teacher, or whoever can guide you until you start what you care about and talk to them.
After that, get a good sleep, and do it already. Everything, everything will be alright.
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As a segment of the 10-Day storytelling Challenge, the challenge I created in 2021, I interviewed my good friend Tchales. He has a podcast channel, which is his passion project, and keeps sharing wonderful stories and knowledge with people from across the world. I attribute his success to his excellent networking skills. So I asked him some questions and we discussed them back then.
It is not a new video, but this video is timeless. I'm sure you'll learn a lot from it.
FYI: This is my very first interview video. I was awkward, but that's one of the things that can amuse you!
[Discussion Questions]
What's your take on the most common difficulty "I have no one to practice English with."
What are the steps you take to connect with someone you don't know online?
Do you have any tips for successful networking? Are there any big NO-NOs?
Do you have any writing/storytelling tips?
Get in touch with Tchales!
Podcast Channel (Spotify): Stories of Language Learners
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/SOLLPodcast/posts
Instagram: Stories of Language Learners Community of English Learners
Telegram: English Speaking Club
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I’ve talked to hundreds of language learners since 2020. Believe it or not, most of them have told me that they are introverts.
Speaking a foreign language makes you extremely vulnerable, and I must admit, it probably takes more effort for introverts to overcome emotional barriers to speak up. But don’t let your introversion fool you. You just need a good outlet.
Today’s story reminds me of what Tetsuko Kyoroyanagi, a Japanese TV presenter, once said. She said: “I think even someone who hates talking surely has stories to tell. "
Today’s storyteller has found a great creative out and environment for him to keep learning English.
This is Daniel.
Get in touch with Daniel!
Instagram: @myfluentpodcast
Podcast: My Fluent Podcast Website
🎵Fog Lake - Spectrogram
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I challenged myself to practice Indonesian for 30 days in a row in June. I'm sharing some takeaway with you today. 🎵New Lands by Independent Music Licensing Collective (IMLC) CC By-NC-ND 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/
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I came across one quote the other day. It goes like this.
"To learn a language is to have one more window from which to look at the world."
Seems like it’s a Chinese proverb, and I agree with it. I learn English and Indonesian, and I feel like my world is brighter and I’ve had a wider view. But the window is just a window. The thing is: Would you get out of the window and get what you want?
Today’s contributing writer has shared her language learning journey. She depicted her mindset shift and discovery. I’m sure you can relate to her story.
This is Crystal.
Get in touch with Crysta;!
Instagram: @crystal860806
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Restrictions, Isolation, negligence.
When you hear those words, what do you think of? What you’ve got in your mind might be an issue that your community has been facing. Or it might be something you care about.
Today, we’re here with Eni, continuing from last week. She shared something we have to reflect on.
Let's think it through together.
Get in touch with Eni!
Instagram: @eni.englishjourney
🎵 Caslo - Calling
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Consistency is the key to fluency.
We all know it, but easier said than done.
I found a woman who makes videos literary every day to improve her speaking skills. And What caught my attention is not only her skills of storytelling but also her courage. She doesn’t shy away from difficult conversations.
I asked her to share some of her stories on my Podcast, and she said yes! So I’ll be sharing her stories this week and next week.
I’m sure you can get some inspiration from her.
This is Eni.
Get in touch with Eni!
Instagram: @eni.englishjourney
🎵 Ketsa - Laughter
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"Embajadores, a Multicultural Neighborhood in Madrid"
Storyteller: Caro @englishbedohave
👉Epherama e-book
My name is Carolina. I’m a proud eternal learner and a work in progress. I’m a Bolivian soul living in Spain. I came to study fourteen years ago and it became my new home. My values are honesty, curiosity, and loyalty. Traveling and learning from other cultures is one of my hobbies.
A big thank you to Maki for creating this opportunity for learners once again. Your work is very inspiring! ❤️
🎵The Tranpeteers - Little Wooden Church
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"I Am a Woman."
Storyteller: Liana @liana_englishjourney
👉Epherama e-book
Hello guys! My name is Liana. I’m from Brazil, and today I would like to bring up an important topic. I’m going to talk a little bit about some aspects that involve violence against women, not only the physical but also the emotional and psychological ones.
I know that we are going through difficult times with COVID and economic instability around the world right now. It is so much bad news out there that it is totally understandable that we want to receive positive vibes and inspirational stories only. I get it. I want to as well.
However, we are going through another pandemic, a silent one. Which has been causing suffering and death to at least one out of three women in this world. It is shocking.
So my purpose in this short piece is to bring awareness and reflection on our role in society. What has to be done to create a safe place for all the girls and women everywhere. Also, how this system is rooted in gender-based discrimination, social norms that accept violence, and gender stereotypes continue promoting these cycles of violence.
As an English learner and a global citizen, I believe we should use our voice to help create the world that we want to live in.
🎵The Tranpeteers - Little Wooden Church
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"The Present That Was Kept Somewhere Forever"
Storyteller: Mi Han @mihan_121
👉Epherama e-book
I am the kind of person who doesn't hold a grudge. Loves being alone.
My heart beats in an exciting and special way when I get compliments from anyone I love.
And I shed tears when I get frustrated and one more is when I feel that my dream to study abroad is becoming unrealistic for only me day by day.
I'm so grateful to my parents for giving me life. And I cannot live without them.
I'm sending this poem from Myanmar to you.
My name is Mi Han.
🎵The Tranpeteers - Little Wooden Church
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/writerscarvings/message
"I’m So Grateful for Having Them"
Storyteller: Intan IG: @intandevianna @intandevianna_
👉Epherama e-book
Hello!
I’m the kind of person who admires the beauty of sunshine from the top of the mountain. Loves being trapped alone in my bedroom to finalize my articles, and also loves taking a stroll by myself to have some me-time.
My heart always belongs to my family: the only one who accepts me whoever I am. And I shed tears when we exchange stupid jokes using our traditional Javanese language.
I’m so grateful for finally figuring out what I was supposed to do a long time ago: writing and English. And I can’t live without them probably. I’m sending this hello from a gorgeous country, Indonesia.
My name is Intan. Nice to meet you.
By the way, I forgot how many Writer's Carvings projects I joined. However, I can’t deny that Writers Carvings has become one of the best supports in terms of English writing drills. That’s why a quick message that I can share with you regarding your English journey is to figure out the best environment and partners to practice English with. You may find it in an English online challenge, an English community, or simply by taking an offline/online English course. A good environment will lead you to the right path, and also make you stay committed to your English goals. Good luck on your English journey!
🎵The Tranpeteers - Little Wooden Church
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/writerscarvings/message
"Mightier Than A Sword, Softer Than A Flower"
Storyteller: Safa @safaesam6
👉Epherama e-book
Hi, my name is Safa, originally from Sudan. I have been living in Saudi Arabia for five years.
It is my honor to be a part of this project “Ephemera". I wrote about the power of words because I believe words—the good, the bad, and the ugly—have power that could impact us in many ways. Moreover, I describe how our speech or writing can change someone's life.
My quick massage for other learners is: if you are willing to achieve your goals, you should be consistent and do not give up easily.
First and foremost, always remember to surround yourself with good friends because this will come in handy for you. Good friends can inspire you and encourage you. Keep in mind, that your environment will shape you. So be wise and smart to invest your precious time in something useful.
Last but not least, challenge yourself and get out of your comfort zone. Be willing to ask questions, make mistakes and learn from them. It is okay to look ridiculous sometimes. Be enthusiastic about your journey and enjoy it as much as you can. Good luck.
🎵The Tranpeteers - Little Wooden Church
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/writerscarvings/message
"The Ordinary Girl From A Developing Country"
Storyteller: Ginny IG: @zinzinhtet_1812
👉Epherama e-book
My name is Zin Zin Htet (Ginny). I am from Myanmar. I live in Lashio, which is situated in Northern Shan State. The story is about the ordinary girl who lost her dreams during the coup.
My message to English learners is: if you are trying to learn English, don't be afraid and build a society that is close to the English language or try to connect with that society. Never quit your English learning if you start. Stay close with English in any way.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/writerscarvings/message
Hello! This is Writer’s Carvings podcast. I’m your host, Maki. I’m a language learning facilitator. This podcast is where you can share your voice in English. I’m here to invite you to join me.
I created a writing project called Writer’s Carvings for English learners in 2020 to help them improve their writing skills. Since then, I’ve met people from every walk of life, and my project has become more like a place where they tell me about what they care about. What they told me was sometimes different from what I see on TV, and I’m more interested in their communities and I cannot thank them enough for being brave to speak up.
In this podcast, I’ll be sharing stories of English learners from across the world. Also, I’m sharing mine too. The show is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
I can’t wait to connect with you.
🎵Dryness by Ketsa
https://freemusicarchive.org/music/Ketsa/Universal_Law/Dryness/
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/writerscarvings/message