Cognitive Benefits of Bilingualism - Bilingualism rewires the brain, leading to greater cognitive flexibility and inhibition [5][6] - Cognitive flexibility enables shifting perspectives when facing problems [6] - Cognitive inhibition prevents seizing the easiest answer too quickly [6] - Bilingual individuals have an advantage in adapting to social situations [7] Language Loss and its Implications - A native language disappears every two weeks, resulting in the loss of a unique way of thinking [8] - The loss of languages in the Amazon risks losing words for cures and treatments not yet discovered by modern medicine [9] - The protection of languages can protect the survival of all, extending beyond cultural heritage [10] Importance for Global Issues - Patience and creativity are needed for complex research [11] - Conflicting resolutions demand different perspective-taking in diplomacy [11] - No single way of thinking is sufficient for addressing the planet's big issues [11] Call to Action - Step outside of comfort zones and attempt to communicate in other languages, even imperfectly [8] - The ability to find common ground and speak each other's languages is crucial for the 21st century [12]