From Embarrassed to Empowered: My English Journey

When people ask me why I care so much about learning English, I always say: it’s because I’ve lived through every emotion you can possibly feel while using it.

I’ve been proud, frustrated, embarrassed, and even laughed until I cried—all thanks to English. And if you grew up like me, in the Philippines, maybe you’ve felt the same.

Let me tell you a story that ties it all together.

It started with a childhood dream… and a spelling mistake.

When I was 8, I wanted to be a "newscaster." I’d stand in front of our electric fan pretending it was a camera, reporting fake news in my best English:

“Good evening, this is Kian reporting live… a typhoon is coming… and also, my mom cooked sinigang.”

One day, I joined a school spelling contest. I was so confident until I got the word: “elephant.”

I proudly spelt, “E-L-E-F-A-N-T.”

The room went quiet. My teacher gave me a gentle smile.

“Kian, good try. But it’s with a PH, not an F.”

I was crushed. I thought, “Why does English have so many weird rules?!”That was my first real taste of frustration with the language.

But then, English saved the day.

Years later, when I was around 13, we were at the mall when a tourist approached us and asked for help. My parents didn’t understand him, but I did.

I nervously stepped forward and said,

“He’s asking how to get to the taxi area.”

I gave him directions in English, and he smiled, saying,

“Thank you, kid. You saved me.”

I felt like a superhero. My parents looked proud. That was the first time I realized—English is more than just a school subject. It’s a superpower.

And sometimes… it gave me my most hilarious moments.

Like the time I confidently told a waiter,

“Can I have six spicy?”

I meant six pieces of spicy chicken, but ended up with six cups of hot sauce.

My family was crying from laughter while I sat there, sweating from both the spice and the embarrassment.

So, why is English important for Filipinos like me?

Because it opens doors. It helps you connect. It gives you opportunities.

But most of all,

It teaches you to be brave.

Even when you make mistakes. Even when people laugh. Even when you feel embarrassed.

Because every time you use English, you grow.

And trust me, one day you’ll look back and laugh at every “elefant” moment you had.

Have you had a funny or frustrating English moment too? Share it in the comments—I'd love to hear your story!