Our January 14th session with Heather and Ece from English as a Singing Language was the perfect blend of heartfelt goals and soulful melodies. From the moment participants logged in, it was clear this wasn’t just another virtual session—it was a coming together of curious minds and kindred spirits, united by the magic of song and a shared commitment to growth.
The session began with cheerful greetings and playful updates about everything from winter weather to recent school breaks. The energy in the room was contagious as everyone settled in. Heather and Ece set the tone with their warmth and humor, making the virtual space feel like a cozy gathering of friends.
The focus soon shifted to the topic of New Year’s resolutions—a fitting theme for the start of 2025. After a brief introduction, participants eagerly shared their goals. The responses were as unique as the individuals themselves—some hoped to excel in their studies, while others were determined to embrace personal growth or pursue adventures. Mirey, the coordinator, shone especially bright with her inspiring resolution: visiting the U.S. to raise awareness of the program and connect with key contributors in person. And she wasn’t just talking the talk—right after the session, Mirey set off on her ten-day U.S. adventure! She’ll be meeting Heather and Ece in Pittsburgh this weekend, joined by Michael Sullivan for what promises to be a heartfelt reunion.
Of course, not all resolutions come easy. The group didn’t shy away from sharing the struggles that often come with self-improvement. Between jokes about procrastination and honest reflections on motivation, there were plenty of nods and knowing laughter as everyone connected over the ups and downs of trying to turn dreams into action.
To accompany the discussion, Heather and Ece introduced a fitting song choice: Taylor Swift’s ballad New Year’s Day. This wasn’t just a song about romantic beginnings—it was a tribute to the quiet strength of those who stay by your side when the party’s over and the confetti settles. As the group listened, they uncovered idioms tucked into the lyrics like hidden treasures. Phrases like “strike out” and “toast of the town” sparked questions and led to animated discussions.
Tying into the month’s design theme, Ece shared some creative idioms related to the world of design: “a picture is worth a thousand words,” “think outside the box,” and “go back to the drawing board.” The group lit up with ideas, connecting these expressions to their own experiences and weaving stories with humor and heart.
Then came the highlight of the session: the singalong! The atmosphere was joyful and warm, with participants clapping along and swaying as they embraced the song. Initial shyness gave way to confident voices and bright smiles. Breakout rooms offered a chance for deeper connection, as small groups discussed the song’s idioms, its meaning, and even shared similar expressions from their own languages. “Throw someone a curveball” was a fan favorite—it turns out we’ve all encountered life’s unexpected twists!
Heather shared a behind-the-scenes anecdote about how Taylor Swift wrote New Year’s Day after hosting a massive party in London and reflecting on the quieter, more meaningful moments afterward. The story resonated with everyone, serving as a poignant reminder that life’s magic often happens when the noise fades and support matters most.
As the session wrapped up, the sense of connection and community lingered. Whether setting goals, learning idioms, or harmonizing to a shared melody, one thing was clear: resolutions become more meaningful when shared, and songs have a way of turning intentions into inspiration. Here’s to a 2025 filled with resilience, friendship, and the unforgettable power of music.
