You have the private satisfaction of owning a skill. Whenever you have a conversation in Spanish, understand an ad, scan the Spanish edition of “People” magazine, or eavesdrop on conversations in public, you savor a small moment of accomplishment.

It’s an immensely satisfying, life-long adventure that is constantly new and constantly challenging. To know a little Spanish, to give yourself a little push to use it in a little way will give you a big reward. Tell yourself, “I want to have fun with my bad Spanish!”