The author reflects on her challenges of learning French after moving to Paris, initially feeling comfortable in English-speaking circles. A chance experience volunteering at Le Bar Commun helped her face her fears and improve her language skills. She encountered barriers like unfamiliar vocabulary and cultural differences, which posed challenges that she ultimately overcame through interaction with the community. The experience highlighted the importance of stepping out of one's comfort zone and embracing local culture to achieve personal growth and language proficiency.
For some hubristic reason, I assumed I'd do the same. But in 2018, two years after arriving in Paris, I was coasting.
Slowly, my language skills improved, and eventually I stopped hiding from customers in the kitchen.
The volunteers and customers accepted me as I was... It felt like a home.
When I was first asked to take on a manager shift, I turned it down for lack of confidence.
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