Learning & Growing Together

After living in France for nearly 3 years I was a level B2 (high level intermediate level French speaker.) My good friend-American ex-patriot-Francophile suggested I that taking french a lover, would advance my French language abilities. At the time I’ll was apartment hunting and arduous task in France particularly for foreigners.I lost my gag reflex for dating and had neither energy or interest in dating. Not to mention that, I found the men in France to be cheap and horny, so I’ll pass thank you.

When I met my future husband (while apartment hunting,) I declared that I was content being a single woman. Having just reached the age of 50, I embraced the idea of solo living. One afternoon after viewing an apartment he offered to take me on a drive. Happy for the distraction and the companionship of a gentleman I accepted. We were married 10 months later.

How do you (the two of you) communicate, especially in situations where language barriers can complicate things? My husband speaks no English. We rely on a mix of gestures, facial expressions, and, patience. It’s fascinating how we’ve developed our own little ways to express ourselves, sometimes leading to amusing misunderstandings.

Nonetheless, I cherish the creativity that arises from this challenge. It helps us connect with each other on a deeper level, observing each other’s rhythms and love language.

For example, Eric’s love language is acts of service. Which he exhibits by bringing my coffee with a straw. A small detail that shows how well he knows me. My love language is also acts of service, which I show by preparing dinner before his scheduled return from work. There’s nothing better than coming home to the smell of home cooking.

At the end of the day, language is a bridge, not a barrier. The language difference challenges us to be creative and learn new things together.