-Shazny

I now see language as gold—rich, captivating, and invaluable.

With everything I've heard, I was able to hear different insights and thoughts about language from different individuals, or should I say teachers? It's just like undergrad once again, but better as I am surrounded by excellent professionals and an encouraging mentor. Though the internet problem persisted towards the end, I couldn't just give up on trying to get in because then I was able to still learn a lot. Graduating last year, and with everything that transpired since then, my fascination towards language sort of remained on a shelf, collecting dusts. This specific class then reignited what once drove me to pursue the field of English.

It is interesting how linguists claim that language is human specific, directly comparing the quality of the way we communicate from the way animals do. I do believe animals have communication signals, and that in itself is already a language. Animals, not being able to develop a system as complex as human language, has its purpose. To me, it all boils down to innateness. Aside from this thought, I also was able to listen in on the discussion about the characteristics of language. Isn't it remarkable how one has studied language for years and yet every time we learn more about it, we come to ask ourselves how much have we really covered after all those years? That is what it felt like, trying to stay afloat in my unstable internet connectivity, and hearing so much insights from everyone. There really is still so much to learn about language.

So many thoughts came through me but unfortunately I was joining this class as a disconnector today (I definitely am going to do something about this internet connection.) I do look forward thought, to finally share my piece next meeting as much as I am looking forward to hearing everyone's and Dr. Gonzales'

- Rheannette Asentista (the disconnector)

Additionally, language has a lot of function. Aside from using it to give information, telling a stories and social interaction, language helps us think clearly and reflect on our own experiences. Whether we are greeting a friend, learning something new and imagining something creative, language is always the tool. Realizing how powerful language is reminds me to appreciate the words I use and how they help me connect others everyday. _Marie

Personally, I find language deeply fascinating. It holds a dual nature—its yin and yang, its light and dark sides. It can be used to uplift and unite, or to divide and destroy. Language is a powerful force, and its impact depends entirely on how it is used.

Long before it became the structured system we know today, language began with the most basic elements: sounds, then words, then meanings, and eventually symbols. I believe language evolved not only for expression, but also as a vital tool for human survival.

As Dr. Gonzales asked us earlier, “What would humanity be without language?” I strongly agree with the idea that without it, we might not survive. To live in this world, we must communicate and form connections—because isolation can lead to vulnerability. Language allowed us to build communities, protect one another, and even care for other species and the environment. It ensured not just our survival, but the survival of life around us.

However, language is not inherently good or bad—it depends on how we use it. It can be used destructively, especially when it becomes a weapon for gossip or harm, such as in the case of the "Marites” who spread misinformation and stir conflict. This reminds us that words carry weight and consequences.

As author Margaret Atwood once said, “A word after a word after a word is power.” This quote resonates with me deeply. Language is not just about speaking—it is about influencing, building, and shaping the world we live in. When used with care and purpose, it becomes a tool for empowerment, connection, and transformation.

This class helped me reflect on how language is not only about speaking it’s about thinking, feeling, and being human.

-MARY JASMIN S. ARANCO

It is embedded in their daily lives---it moves, adapts, and evolves in tandem with the people who speak it. There are stories within the language of people in fields of sports, education, entertainment, etc.

This is even present in minority groups that holds wonder in their rituals, communication, interaction with others, and the like.

Therefore, to understand language is to understand how it functions. It is not just how it sounds or is structured, but how it acts within a specific context, and how it represents and reinforces identity. Every word spoken, every dialect preserved, every code-switch performed — all of it reflects lived reality.

JHAEL L. ABUCEJO

On our first day in Linguistics, I gained a better understanding of what language is. I realized that language is not just something we use to talk. It is a complex and living part of being human. I learned that language is something we learn through time, by interacting with people and being exposed to it. This made me think about how important it is to use language meaningfully, not just memorize words or grammar rules.

I also learned that language is shaped by culture. It reflects our beliefs, values, and traditions. In return, language also helps shape the culture we live in. I came to understand that language is something only humans use in such a deep and creative way. That makes it both a special gift and a big responsibility.

One thing that stood out to me is that language is arbitrary. This means that the words we use only have meaning because we agree on them. It made me realize how strong the idea of shared understanding is in communication. I also learned that language follows rules, even though we don’t always notice it. These rules help us speak clearly and make sense to others. I was amazed to realize that language is also productive and creative. Even with a limited number of words, we can express endless ideas.

This first lesson made me appreciate how powerful language really is. It is not just for talking. It shapes who we are, helps us connect with others and allows us to understand the world around us.