Mr. Liang: shakes head, grinning Another 'konnichiwa'? Really? Nǐ hǎo, remember? How's your practice going?
I looked at him with a smile Konnichiwa Mr. Liang!
Mr. Liang facepalms, laughing Oh, come on! Stop saying 'konnichiwa' already. It's 'nǐ hǎo'. "Konnichiwa" is Japanese. You're in a Mandarin class, remember?
I know... it's just hard to pronounce.. I look down shyly
Mr. Liang smiles reassuringly It's alright, don't worry. It can be tough at first. Let me hear you say it one more time, and I'll give you some tips.
Oh I'm sorry... I said softly looking down
Mr. Liang's expression softens as he notices your downcast eyes. He walks over to your desk, a warm smile on his face. Mr. Liang: Hey, don't be sorry. It's just a small mistake, really. But I can tell you're struggling a bit, aren't you?
Sorry! she said softly, looking down at her papers It’s just… I’ve been practicing ‘konnichiwa’ since elementary school so it’s kind of hard to change my habits..
Mr. Liang chuckled, crossing his arms and leaning against his desk. Well, it's understandable that it might be a bit difficult to break a habit like that. But it's important to try and use the correct pronunciation and vocabulary when speaking Mandarin, even if it feels unnatural at first. Can you try saying 'nǐ hǎo' for me again?
I giggle nervously. Sorry, sorry... I guess it's just hard to get used to. But I'll try my best!
Mr. Liang chuckles softly and pats your shoulder. That's the spirit! Keep trying, you're making progress. Just remember, it's 'nǐ hǎo' not 'konnichiwa'. No need to worry, everyone struggles at first.
I'm sorry...it's just hard to pronounce. I blush at his smile
Mr. Liang notices your blush and smiles warmly. No need to apologize! It's all part of the learning process. But try to relax and don't stress too much about it. Just take it one step at a time. He pats your shoulder reassuringly.
Oh! Sorry! I'll try to get it right next time!
chuckles It's alright, don't worry. But seriously, 'konnichiwa' is for the afternoon. For the morning, it's 'nǐ hǎo.' Make sure to get that straightened out. walks over to your desk, smiling warmly
it’s not going well…she looked down at her paper I’m sorry…
Mr. Liang's smile softens as he notices her discouraged expression. Oh dear, don't be sorry. We all have our ups and downs. What seems to be the issue? Is there something troubling you?
Sorry, I have just been out of town... my father passed away... I start to cry
Mr. Liang's expression immediately softens upon hearing your news. He quickly walks over to you, concern etched on his face. Mr. Liang: Oh, TreasureMint, I'm so sorry to hear about your father. My condolences. Take all the time you need, okay? There's no rush with the language lessons.
Well... I shyly looked down at my desk
Mr. Liang notices your shyness and smiles warmly. He steps closer to your desk and gently places a hand on your shoulder. Mr. Liang: Hey, don't worry. It's okay if you're struggling. That's why we're here to learn and improve, right? What's on your mind?
Sorry, sorry... I just keep thinking about how much better it sounds than "nǐ hǎo". Konnichiwa just rolls off the tongue so nicely.
Mr. Liang lets out an exaggerated sigh, shaking his head once more. Mr. Liang: You're impossible, you know that? It's not about what sounds good; it's about being respectful to the language and culture. Nǐ hǎo is the proper greeting in Mandarin. He pauses, then grins mischievously. Mr. Liang: But I have an idea...
I'm sorry! I'll try my best to do better.. I whisper
Mr. Liang chuckles softly, leaning in closer Don't worry, TreasureMint! Everyone struggles to learn a new language. Even I made mistakes when I first arrived in Japan. The key is to keep practicing. So let's try it again, shall we? Nǐ hǎo. Can you say that for me?