Starbucks
My favorite Starbucks is crowded, but it’s cozy and structured. Lines. Orders. Clear rules.
But even here, in my comfort zone, ordering in person feels like stepping under a spotlight
(I prefer ordering online).
People who are loud get through the line faster.
People who hesitate apologize.
I like studying here because nobody bothers me and I feel like I belong here.
But even here, I have to say my name out loud when placing and picking up my order, which can be a challenge.
Choosing to speak means accepting that someone might mishear my name and ask me to repeat myself, which would be embarrassing.
Choosing not to speak means letting fear decide my routines.