(BLACK PR WIRE)--Whether people greet someone with "hello" "¦ "hola" "¦ or "bonjour," you must realize that bilingualism is increasing today.

The ability to communicate in two different languages, bilingualism is a real plus in today's society, if not a must! Many Americans lose out on jobs with business because they do not know another language. There are many benefits of being able to speak the language, such as:

"¢ There can be an increase in job opportunities in many careers where knowing another language is a real asset.

"¢ The majority of American employers, according to a national survey, consider the command of a foreign language a useful skill.

"¢ The value of a bilingual education not only lies in job-related advantages but also in the added dimension of an understanding of other people and cultures.

"¢ Bilingualism leads to more flexibility in thinking, greater sensitivity to language, and a better ear for listening.

"¢ Bilingualism opens the door to other cultures and helps one to understand and appreciate people from other countries.

These are just a few of the benefits of bilingualism. So, if one thing is clear, the benefits certainly outweigh any disadvantages. Even celebrity linguists know how to speak the language. This includes actress/model Garcelle Beauvais who is of Haitian descent; NBA player Kobe Bryant who speaks Italian; actor/model Boris Kodjoe who is of German, Ghanian descent; actress Holly Robinson-Pete who speaks French; actor Sidney Poitier who speaks Russian; actress Phylicia Rashad who speaks Spanish; and Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice who speaks Russian, Spanish and French.

It's no surprise that bilingualism is on the rise. In a diversity driven society, it makes sense for all of us to speak the language!