I started another informal class at the University of Texas tonight. It’s a French class and for beginners. I’ve taken French off and on for years but I’ve never been able to get beyond beginner.
I asked myself why and the answer is simple. It’s fear. Fear of sounding dumb. Fear of being laughed at. Fear of being tongue tied and making people frustrated. Fear. It’s why kids learn languages so quickly. They aren’t afraid of trying. They don’t worry about what other people think.
The class is too easy in some ways but when I try a group where people are fluent, I can’t keep up. So I have to find a way to learn and progress. I also have to walk a fine line and not be overbearing in this class. It’s easy to want to answer the questions because you know the answer. But I know how it feels to be totally lost in translation with people speaking at what sounds like lightening speed.
So as I give it a shot again, I hope it sticks and I don’t forget it and I hope I no longer worry about sounding stupid.
My life on an unexpected path 
How great! I really believe that learning a language is one of the most humbling and human experiences you can have. Looking forward to hearing any updates you have as you progress! Courage!
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I remember studying French and fearing I would inadvertently say something really “colorful,” the kind of story my French teacher would repeat to his peers for decades to follow. It never happened. All that happened was I didn’t take full advantage of a wonderful opportunity to learn from a native speaker! Good luck and have fun! I wish I remembered more of what I learned. A word here, a phrase there and that’s it. I envy you!
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I admire your teachability. That alone takes you a long way. Keep going; hope you will enjoy the learning process more than what you learn. And – I think you uncovered a secret: not worrying about sounding stupid.
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