A Baker's Kindness

 

    I wrote this in my journal earlier today, but I thought it might do some good here:

September 14, 2022

    Amidst the chaos of everything recently--trying to gather all the correct papers for my residence permit, preparing to be both a teacher and a student, improving my German, attempting to master the bus system, and so much more--it's nice to have small moments of peace and personal happiness. This is one of those moments. After a morning spent completely chained to my desk searching through university classes on my laptop, I am now sitting outside a cute bakery with a large cappuccino and an apple strudel. Both taste like they were made with love and respect for the culinary arts, but it was the lady behind the counter that made my day. As I took my time at the counter silently trying to match the German names I read with the baked goods I saw (okay, Apfelkuchen means apple cake, so it must be that one!), she waited while I took "einen Moment, bitte," (a moment, please) to decide what to order. After I pointed to something and asked what it was, I immediately knew she recognized that I'm a foreigner from the deliberate and slightly slower way she explained the items. However, instead of switching to English, she continued to speak in German, which I deeply appreciated. Although I took longer than a typical customer and needed a little more assistance, she listened and responded without any air of judgement. Now, I get to sit here, despite the rain, despite the cars passing by, and despite the construction right across the street, and feel at ease. 

    When someone gives you patience without patronization, when they understand your differences without making you feel different, and when they give you the chance to learn without making you feel guilty or stupid for not already knowing, then you begin to feel accepted. You feel like you'll belong someday, or maybe that you already belong.