Undercover English speakers

One of the best things about my job is that I'm constantly meeting people who appeared not to speak ONE WORD of English, who turn out to be Undercover English speakers. These are people who actually know a good amount of English but are shy or lacking in confidence because it's been a long time (or a little while) since they last had an English class or any other chance to practice. The great thing is that when they start speaking again, they often remember English very quickly! Then it seems like magic! Sometimes they can really talk a lot, and it's wonderful that they've had the courage to begin again, and come into the light as English speakers. If you should happen to be an Undercover English speaker reading this, I encourage you to find an opportunity to start speaking again... If you look for a supportive person or people to talk with, you will benefit and probably inspire some other people too!

This image is from the original Get Smart TV series, and it shows the agents with their famous shoe phones.