Time passed, and the old wounds slowly healed, You endured much oppression, many pains concealed. Every inch of your soil now has flower-beds revealed, May you ever bloom and prosper, garden and meadow blessed, My soul is sacrificed for you, my Uzbekistan!
Your snowy peaks embraced the sunlight’s gentle ray, Because of you, Fitrat and Cholpon’s names were cleared today, Hearts have found where dreams and hopes can once again stay. You are the balm for aching hearts, the cure for all distress, My soul is sacrificed for you, my Uzbekistan!
Your fields drank not water, but my nation’s blood, I deem, My people, in dark times, lived in sorrow’s endless stream. My people, who in hope, awaited freedom’s dream. Oh, my motherland, may your head be safe, hard as stone, My soul is sacrificed for you, my Uzbekistan!
May your harvest overflow, your blessings never cease, I would use your sacred herbs to grant my eyesight peace. I’d kiss your cheek to honor you, but you have no cheek’s release. May your name be a great epic, in every tongue increased, My soul is sacrificed for you, my Uzbekistan!
Your brave, courageous son stands with a mountain’s might, His loyalty to you is an oath of solemn height. Blessed indeed is he who’s born within your light. Stay safe forever, oh you ancient Land of Turan, My soul is sacrificed for you, my Uzbekistan!
Not for nothing are you called the Motherland so dear, I lived all these years, your sorrows mine to bear. I’ve not thanked you enough for your bread and salt to share. Please forgive my faults, whether they were wrong or right, My soul is sacrificed for you, my Uzbekistan!
Behold today, this wondrous, radiant day has come, The glorious day your independence was won. Congratulations on this blessed, triumphant one! Live for millennia, my free and blooming Gulistan, My soul is sacrificed for you, my Uzbekistan!
Roodly Laurore was born and raised in Haiti. He is an engineer and poet. His poems, widely published, are included in: Synchronized Chaos; Spirit Fire Review; Welter University of Baltimore; Taos Journal of Poetry;Kosmos Journal; Autism Parenting Magazine; Solstice Literary Magazine; The New Verse News; Jerry Jazz Musician and others. He is the father of two sons.
Jerrice J. Baptiste is an artist poet and author of nine books. She has been published in The Yale Review; Kosmos Journal; The Tulane Review; Eco Theo Review; The Caribbean Writer and many others. Jerrice enjoys playing the role of translator and illustrator. She teaches poetry where she lives in New York!
Is everything a ridge of ice shaped by ancient pressure? From the gondola’s steel ribs hang the trembling cables. Above the stone-lined path, a shuttered chalet. The switchback logic of fear
surrounds the valley floor of awe. Sometimes it feels like a world arranged only by ascent and breath, eight hours in both directions. How about a glacier
that calves in the heat of late September? A red train threading the fir trees? Mont Blanc done in morning alpenglow? Anyone who has traveled here knows the discrepancies
between imagining a mountain and meeting one. The idea is the postcard in your pocket and the fact is your legs cramping on the vertiginous stairs to the gondola.
In between may be the sacred—real tears when the massif reveals itself—and the absurd— a bee stinging you on the red train while the French family laughs softly into their scarves.
Maybe awe is best sprung from fatigue, like the children of some Alpine god. One gives us waterfalls spilling from granite throats, another crampons clacking on the station platform,
another the blond, perfectly coiffed woman steadying herself in the shaking gondola, perfume rising like mist. Considerable wobble in the system, and the wind shrieks
through the metal joints. Swaying in the airborne box, watching the treetops fall away: good idea! But also sadness looking at the glacier— the Mer de Glace shrinking year by year.
The stranded clouds cling to the aiguilles though the sun calls them upward. The French boy rock-climbing with his father refuses to come down, gripping the limestone
as if joined to it. By what manner is the soul tethered to a place? Answer: an arm connecting a child to a mountainside. According to the guides,
there are no accidents. The hikers waiting for the train—with their heavy packs and rope coils—agree. You stumble over your own bad French yet somehow they understand you.
Human wonder: is it the summit or the climb? They come in bright parkas and steel the paths so nothing slips but the meltwater. It is too late to ask Ruskin
what he’d think of the retreating ice. Sometimes they give you a view, a silence, and the rest is your heart’s problem. In one version,
the valley gifts you a morning bus at 5 A.M., a frost-bit seat and the first glimpse of the Alps— silver-backed, wind-sired creatures older than language. That was before you knew
you would cry when Mont Blanc appeared, a white cathedral rising beyond judgment. You did not want to miss a single waterfall, nor the giant Alpine plants
bending in the wind, thick as lanterns. So too every decade you grow older but the mountain, coming to meet you, remains the master of the story. After the sting from whom
you will never know, you step off the train, touch a boulder where meltwater sings.
The cute little owl, silent, strong fluffy ball; captures and charms; brings smiles and joy to all.
With wide open, starry eyes in silence, watches deep dark night’s stillness, for guidance.
With tiny little wings, it glides through the night; the magical dance of elegance, in delight. Soars high in the vast blue sky, to seven continents and seven seas, he flies;
Stays awake, when the whole world sleeps and dreams. Listens to the secret whispers of the night. Sees beyond the veil of darkness, as in daytime, Heart full of wisdom, hidden truths come to light. Sees in the dark, the reality of life.
A World full of hunger, greed, corruption and disease; grieving animals and humans in need. Inside their hearts they all bleed; suffer in pain; for changing conditions, by humans for greed, and selfish reasons to gain.
Nature’s philosopher, contemplates with patience.
His watchful eyes, guard while you sleep. Loyal and wise, always there to support and guide; to surf through life’s dark moments and plight. Teaches us, even in darkness, there is always light. Inspires to see beyond darkness, and find our own light. Enlightens with spiritual insight and connects with the divine. He is a true friend to see you through the darkest nights.
Be the owl, fearless to soar in the darkness; Be an owl, find your hidden strength to harness. Be Lakshmi, the goddess of fortune, wealth, and prosperity. Be Athena, the virgin goddess of sagacity, luck and good fortune, in solidarity.
Be the protector of humans and nature all around, with owl’s silent determination, profound. Show your strength, that lies within yourself. With the power of perseverance, rise silently and powerfully.
Protect humanity!
The Ever-changing Hues of Life
Misty silence and dewy dreams unfulfilled desires, echo in our hearts. Time marches ahead in days and nights. Measured in different space, Seconds, minutes, days, months and years, They race. The ever changing colours of our lives Grassy greens of summer, Sparkling bright spring flowers amaze. The vast blue canvas of sky changes its shades from blue violet to indigo embrace. Soon brown, dusty fallen leaves and life fades. Summer, winter, rain and spring breeze afresh Blows with calm, gentle grace Essence of life, we love and we breathe again.
Tasneem Hossain, a multi-lingual poet, author, educator, translator and columnist from Bangladesh has left an undeniable mark on the literary world. Tasneem’s works have transcended geographical boundaries, reaching readers from diverse cultures and backgrounds. She has immersed herself in the timeless essence of literary creations. She looks at things with microscopic eyes and finds beauty everywhere. This gifted poet, educator and trainer weaves poetry with an intricate tapestry of words. Her poems are music to the heart and speech of the soul that express different aspects of life, evoking emotions from sadness to happiness.
At the same time, her op-eds and columns create awareness about social and human rights issues- including domestic abuse, war and peace. Her writings are a powerful call to humanity to stand against injustice and war. As an op-ed writer, she has written more than 155 articles. Publications: The Pearl Necklace, Floating Feathers and Grass in Green (poetry) and Split and Splice (selected articles). As an op-ed writer, she has written 165 articles. Winner of The International Literary Association Creative Tribune, Walt Whitman 2025 Contest, her poems have been translated in 14 languages and recognized as World’s Contemporary Writers 2024 in several anthologies. She conducts international haiku workshops.
She is an Editorial Ambassador, Bangladesh for the popular international literary magazine, Wordsmith International Editorial, USA and Board Ambassador of Literacy and Culture of the Asih Sasami Indonesia Foundation, Indonesia (2025-2030). Several of her articles and poems are utilized as teaching material in universities and academies in Bangladesh and China; some have been referenced in university research papers. She served as a faculty member of English department in Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology. Currently, she is the director of two prominent human resource development organisations: Continuing Education Centre (Bangladesh), and Cansaz Services and Distribution LLC (Canada). She is a professional trainer with 28 years of experience. She believes in literature as a driving force for awareness and change and also for inspiring writers, readers and change makers.
Keywords: Arabic language, language learning, language acquisition, learning methods, Arabic script.
Abstract: Arabic is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, with over 400 million speakers. However, its unique script, grammar, and pronunciation often pose challenges for learners. This article discusses practical and accessible methods for mastering Arabic, focusing on the importance of consistent practice, cultural immersion, modern technology, and conversational engagement. The article also highlights the role of online resources and structured learning techniques to accelerate language acquisition.
Introduction:
Arabic, a Semitic language spoken across the Middle East and North Africa, is the official language of numerous international organizations, including the United Nations. It is a language of rich cultural significance, historical depth, and modern importance. Learning Arabic offers various personal, academic, and professional advantages. However, many learners find it difficult due to its complex script, unique phonetics, and distinct grammatical structures. This article provides a comprehensive overview of effective and easy methods to learn Arabic, from foundational steps in mastering the script to advanced techniques involving cultural immersion and technological tools.
I. Mastering the arabic script and pronunciation:
The Arabic script is one of the primary challenges for beginners. Unlike most languages, Arabic is written from right to left, and its letters change shape depending on their position in a word. It is crucial to begin by mastering the Arabic alphabet and understanding the differences between print and cursive writing. Learners should also familiarize themselves with the diacritical marks that affect pronunciation, especially short vowels.
To facilitate learning the Arabic script, interactive apps like Duolingo, Memrise, and Busuu can be helpful. These platforms offer gamified lessons that allow learners to practice reading and writing through repetition, progressively mastering each letter.
Pronunciation in Arabic can be difficult due to the presence of several unique sounds not found in many other languages, such as the deep “ع” (ʿAyn) or the throaty “خ” (khaa). Listening to native speakers and practicing pronunciation through podcasts, YouTube videos, and audio lessons is essential for familiarizing oneself with these sounds. Online resources, such as ArabicPod101 and YouTube channels that focus on Arabic phonetics, can provide useful material for hearing proper pronunciation and mimicking it.
II. Leveraging modern technology and online resources:
The digital age has made learning Arabic easier and more accessible than ever. A variety of online platforms, mobile apps, and websites offer structured lessons and exercises designed to enhance language skills. These tools focus on different aspects of language learning, including grammar, vocabulary, sentence structure, and reading comprehension.
Platforms like Duolingo, Rosetta Stone, and Babbel are excellent choices for learners at different levels. They provide interactive exercises and progress tracking, allowing learners to study at their own pace. These apps often incorporate a mix of lessons in vocabulary, grammar, and speaking practice.
Additionally, Arabic-language websites and platforms like Al Jazeera, BBC Arabic, and MBC provide free content for immersive language learning. Watching news reports, TV shows, or listening to podcasts in Arabic can help learners improve listening comprehension, as well as expose them to various regional dialects.
For more structured learning, ArabicPod101 and LingQ are excellent options for intermediate learners, providing targeted lessons in grammar, vocabulary, and listening comprehension. Combining these resources with real-world exposure to the language accelerates the learning process.
III. The role of cultural immersion in language learning:
Cultural immersion is one of the most effective ways to learn Arabic. Experiencing the language in its natural environment enables learners to understand colloquial expressions, regional accents, and the cultural nuances embedded in everyday conversations.
For those unable to travel to an Arabic-speaking country, local Arabic-speaking communities and cultural events provide an excellent alternative for language immersion. Participating in a language exchange program, attending local cultural events, or joining Arabic-speaking groups can create opportunities to practice real-life conversations. Apps like Tandem or HelloTalk connect language learners with native speakers for voice and text chat, providing a platform for practicing conversational Arabic.
Spending time in Arabic-speaking countries, such as Egypt, Jordan, or the UAE, allows learners to immerse themselves fully in the language. Engaging in daily activities, such as shopping, eating out, and conversing with locals, helps improve fluency while gaining insight into the cultural context of the language.
IV. Consistency and structured learning:
One of the key components to mastering Arabic is consistency. Language learning is a gradual process that requires steady practice and patience. Setting daily, achievable goals, such as learning five new words or phrases each day, can help maintain momentum.
To ensure steady progress, learners should develop a structured study plan. A typical learning routine could include:
Vocabulary practice: Focus on essential words and phrases used in daily conversations.
Grammar study: Understand basic sentence structure, verb conjugations, and the use of tenses.
Pronunciation practice: Regularly practice pronunciation using resources like audio lessons and native speakers.
Listening comprehension: Watch Arabic movies, news reports, and TV shows to improve understanding of spoken Arabic.
Tools such as Anki (a flashcard app) and Quizlet allow learners to create personalized study decks for vocabulary and grammar revision. These tools use spaced repetition, a proven method for memorizing information more effectively.
V. Overcoming common challenges in learning arabic:
While learning Arabic can be difficult, many challenges can be overcome with the right approach and mindset. One common issue is the difficulty in distinguishing between Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) and the various regional dialects (e.g., Egyptian Arabic, Levantine Arabic, Gulf Arabic). For beginners, it is essential to focus on MSA, as it is the formal written language used in media, literature, and education. Once a solid foundation in MSA is established, learners can begin to explore regional dialects based on their interests and travel goals.
Another challenge is the complexity of Arabic grammar, particularly the verb system. However, with consistent practice, learners can familiarize themselves with grammatical rules and gain confidence in constructing sentences. The key is not to rush but to master each level before moving on to the next.
Conclusion:
Mastering Arabic is a challenging yet highly rewarding endeavor that demands dedication, patience, and a strategic approach. Unlike some languages, Arabic has a unique script, grammar, and structure, making it a rich linguistic landscape that requires consistent effort. Success in learning Arabic involves a combination of traditional learning methods, such as textbooks, formal lessons, and classroom interaction, along with the integration of modern technology. The use of apps, online courses, and digital resources enhances the learning process, offering greater flexibility and accessibility for a wide range of learners.
Cultural immersion plays a crucial role in understanding the intricacies of Arabic. By engaging with native speakers, watching Arabic media, and participating in cultural activities, learners can bridge the gap between theory and practice. This exposure allows for a deeper appreciation of the language in its natural context, helping learners internalize not just vocabulary but also cultural nuances, idiomatic expressions, and social customs.
In addition, consistent practice is key to retaining knowledge and improving fluency. Whether through speaking, writing, listening, or reading, daily or regular interaction with the language strengthens retention and builds confidence. The gradual process of mastering the language means that learners should set realistic goals and measure progress incrementally, which fosters motivation and reduces frustration.
Arabic serves as a gateway to understanding the rich culture, complex history, and evolving politics of the Arab world. It opens up numerous opportunities for personal, academic, and professional growth. Fluency in Arabic is highly valued in many fields, including diplomacy, international relations, business, translation, and academia. Moreover, the ability to communicate in Arabic strengthens global perspectives and promotes cross-cultural understanding in an increasingly interconnected world.
By strategically utilizing digital tools, participating in cultural exchanges, and following a structured study plan, anyone can achieve proficiency in Arabic. Ultimately, the effort invested in learning this beautiful and multifaceted language not only enhances cognitive abilities but also fosters personal growth, making it a valuable skill in both professional and personal contexts. With dedication, perseverance, and the right approach, Arabic can become an immensely rewarding language to master.
References:
Alhassan Ibrahim. Learning Arabic: A Guide for Beginners. 2nd ed., ─London: Routledge, 2019.
Fadel Amal. Arabic Grammar for Beginners. ─Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2020.
Taha Ahmad. Language Learning Through Cultural Immersion. Journal of Language Studies, vol. 12, no. 3, 2018, pp. 45-60.
Zahran Mohamed. Modern Arabic: A Practical Approach. ─Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2017.
Younis Khalid. Effective Language Acquisition Strategies: Mastering Arabic in the Digital Age. Language Learning Review, vol. 6, no. 2, 2019, pp. 103-118.
Duolingo. Arabic Language Learning: Strategies and Tools. Duolingo Blog, 2021, www.duolingo.com. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.
Rosetta Stone. The Best Ways to Learn Arabic: A Digital Approach. ─Virginia: Rosetta Stone, 2020, www.rosettastone.com. Accessed 15 Jan. 2025.
You know, in every person’s life there are people they look up to, value, and also love — their heroes. I have such people in my life too, and they are my father and mother. Yes, you read that right: my parents are my heroes.
You may ask how. I don’t really know myself, but whenever someone asks me, “Who are your heroes?”, they are the first people who come to my mind.
In general, everyone in my family — my grandfather, grandmother, parents, and my younger sister — are my heroes. Why? Because I take them as role models, I learn from them, and I try to act like them, but I do not repeat their mistakes (everyone who breathes makes mistakes).
You might think, “Are only your family members your heroes?” My answer is no. Because every person I am interested in, every person whose information I collect and carefully write down in my notebook — all of them are my HEROES!
Mutaliyeva Umriniso was born on 14.01.2011 and is currently studying in the 9th grade at one of the model schools in Uzbekistan. She is interested in English, Russian and mathematics, so she attends extra classes in these subjects. Umriniso is interested in volleyball, basketball and chess, as well as art. Her articles and poems have been published through Lulu.
Social media was originally created to connect people, share ideas, and unite the world. However, today it has become a powerful platform that significantly affects human psychology. Every day, millions of people showcase the most beautiful moments of their lives online, while others compare these “perfect” scenes to their own lives, quietly feeling inadequate.
According to global statistics, there are 5.24 billion social media users, who spend an average of 2 hours and 21 minutes per day on these platforms. Over the course of a year, this amounts to almost 34 days—essentially dedicating a month of life to virtual existence. The most concerning part is that a large portion of this time often pulls people into a spiral of self-doubt, envy, and loneliness.
In recent years, these negative consequences have become evident through numerous real-life examples. For instance, the famous blogger Anastasiya Tropitsel frequently showcased a luxurious lifestyle, travel, and expensive cars, attracting admiration from millions of young followers. Yet in 2020, she tragically passed away in Bali. Later reports revealed that Anastasiya had long struggled with depression but concealed her struggles to maintain the “happy persona” online. This tragedy exposed the psychological pain hidden behind the virtual life.
At its core, this problem stems from natural human needs—the desire for recognition, attention, and validation. Social media amplifies this feeling, turning it into a system measured by “likes.” People begin to evaluate themselves by numbers: more views, more comments, more followers—almost as if their value depends solely on these metrics. Consequently, genuine emotions, sincerity, and inner peace diminish, replaced by artificial standards of life.
The solution begins with changing one’s mindset. First, it is crucial to develop a culture of healthy boundaries with social media. This does not mean abandoning it entirely, but using it purposefully and in moderation. Everyone should learn to compare themselves not to others online, but to their past selves. Additionally, educational institutions should introduce lessons on digital literacy and information awareness, while promoting mental well-being and self-esteem among young people.
Social media connects us to the world, but it often distances us from ourselves. We live amidst hundreds of photos, videos, and “perfect” lives every day, yet the most important thing—inner peace—seems increasingly lost. I have realized that true happiness does not lie in “likes,” but in sincere conversations, genuine emotions, and moments spent with loved ones.
Life is given to be lived, not to be shown. Therefore, we should focus less on the fake brilliance behind screens and more on our real lives. Only then can a person preserve their true self, and only then does life truly gain meaning.
NARZULLOYEVA MUNISA BAKHROMOVNA was born on August 13th, 2006, in Surxandarya region, Sariasia district of the Republic of Uzbekistan. She is currently studying in her second year at the Faculty of Journalism. She has accomplished a lot of achievements. For instance: her articles were published in Germany’s “Raven Cage” and Kenya’s “Mt. Kenya Times” international magazines. Additionally, her articles were published twice on the official website of “Synchronized Chaos” and have been indexed on Google. Also, she is a member of the “All India Council of Technical Skill Development” and a member of “Global Education Ambassador”.
