(or for a less visual English Interpretation)
The Future will come slowly but surely1
In recent weeks, after completing my MA in Conference Interpreting (E/D/F), I often think back to all the little words of wisdom my grandmother shared with me—wise words about courage, success and patience. Funny enough, one in particular keeps coming back to me: “Auch Kleinvieh macht Mist.”
Now, the literal meaning—“Even small livestock make manure”—might not sound like an inspiring motto, but trust me, it rings true in more ways than one:
– Confidence and courage
– Investment and return
– Growth and stability
Confidence and courage: Fresh out of the professional starting blocks, we are no longer students. We have to hold our heads high and keep our sights on the finish line. And right now, that finish line feels a bit like a small livestock farm—sure, we may not be taking a prize bull to market just yet, but even a few chickens and goats can keep us going. Every small win counts!
Investment and return: We’ve got the farming theory—now it’s time to put it into practice. That means rolling up our sleeves, turning the soil, planting different crops, and letting the herd (small or large) graze. The first harvest might not be as grand as we’d like, but with patience and effort—including a good amount of organic compost—the returns will grow!
Growth and stability: Because, at the end of the day, every little bit adds up. Today’s small investments—whether in skills, networking, or experience—become the solid foundation for tomorrow. Even the tiniest farm animals eventually produce a manure pile big enough to fertilise an entire field.
Just finished an assignment at a medieval Registrar’s Office located inside an old castle in a village on the outskirts of Heidelberg. A lot of legal jargon, a fair bit of sight translation, and some fun new terms for my glossary. Small job? Sure. But, as the saying goes—even small livestock make manure.
A huge thanks to my University Lecturer, Mentor, and fellow interpreter @Sandra Liepelt for passing this opportunity my way. Every small step leads to the next. Excited for what’s to come!
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- I feel a speech coming on—nudge to @Bernd Mischke ↩︎