Takk Means Thank You

Almost everyone in Norway speaks English, I have not had any major problem communicating with others. I learned the basic questions you can be asked in a register (like if you would like a bag or receipt). This is great since I do not have to tell everyone I meet that I do not speak Norwegian! However, “hello” in this language is really similar to saying “hey” or “hi”. Many people assume I’m Norwegian and start speaking but I cannot understand any of the words. I usually just nod along and smile, hoping I am not being asked anything important. This is how I accidentally signed myself up for a 6-hour intensive knitting workshop, taught in Norwegian.

The workshop turned out to be very fun! Knitting is very popular in Norway and over 53% of the women population my age knits. You can even see people knitting in the subway. I was worried at first about the logistics of the workshop if it was in Norwegian, but the leader was very friendly and changed the language of instruction just for me. Attendees were provided with two yarn packets and training needles. We were given pictures of the headband models we could choose to make. Then, we followed the leader in her demonstration of the basic knitting techniques.

After having had several experiences with Norwegian people, it has become extremely evident how nice and kind they are. ‘Takk’ means thank you in their language. It is a form of beating the language and cultural language between us. Everyone uses the word and it is away of appreciating the generous manners of others. You can hear it everywhere, from the subway to the grocery store and even during classes. This word exists in every language. It is universal, but I believe that in Norway it has more meaning and connects people.