I looked back over my moments and found one of them begins with

a mistake. As native speakers, sometimes our brains correct typing errors as we read them and we don't even notice there was anything wrong. This is why authors hire proof readers to check their work. It reminded me, however, that we all make mistakes - even native speakers! Did you know that many native English speakers use incorrect English? Grammar, spelling, punctuation - errors aren't uncommon.

When I speak with non-native English speakers, many apologise for their mistakes. Some even feel anxious for being unable to deeply express themselves or worried that they'll seem less intelligent. The truth, however, is that you are amazing and doing a wonderful job. YOU are the one putting in the hard work to communicate in a foreign language. When you speak to me in my language, you are the one making the effort to leave your comfort zone so that we can communicate. For that and all of your efforts, you have my respect.