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Monday, November 16, 2015

Hearts to Paris

Words just don't seem adequate to express the sadness felt after hearing of the terrible events that happened in Paris over the weekend.  My heart is heavy as I think of all those who have lost loved ones, and everyone affected by such a violent act. 


It is just unthinkable that a city that I hold so dear, my very favorite place in the world, experienced such a horrible thing.


So, I am praying for peace, and praying for comfort for all.
When I think of Paris, I don't just think of the amazing monuments, the gorgeous flower markets, or the wonderful cafes and bistros.
I think of the people.
Often I am asked if people in France, and Paris in particular are friendly. For some reason, many are under the impression that the French are rude.  In my opinion, nothing could be further from the truth!
So, I answer the same each time:
"Yes, they are very friendly!!"
 I think of the staff at the little hotel on the Left Bank that hubby and I stay at each year.  The same employees have been working at the hotel since we first started going there 15 years ago.  Each time, they greet us with a hug and a warm handshake.
I think of the beautiful Parisian woman who I purchased lovely scarves from, at my favorite street market.
While we didn't speak the same language, we were able to communicate, and she gave me the most beautiful smile.
I think of the woman who owns the adorable little chapeau shop (hat shop) around the corner from our hotel.
As I was trying on one of her beautiful hats, she came over to help me, and showed me how to adjust it
just so.

I think about the guy selling produce at one of our favorite street markets.
We got such a kick out of seeing him in the University of Michigan shirt!
(we live in Michigan).
And I think about the friendly young man who helped me with my purchase of French soaps and dried lavender.
We were so touched when he told us that the French are grateful to the Americans for helping liberate their country during WWII.  He said, in perfect English,
"If it weren't for you, I would be speaking to you in German right now."
Meaning:  France would have been overtaken by the Nazi's and they no longer would be a free country.
Regular people.  Just going about their regular lives.
I remember our first trip to Europe.  How I was so shocked at the sight of young soldiers walking around with assault riffles, fingers poised on the triggers.
It still is shocking to me, but sadly is part of daily life there.
At the airports, and around all of the major monuments, museums and more.
Now I am sure they will be even more of a constant sight, unfortunately.
Please remember those who have lost.  It could happen here.
It has happened here.
Praying for peace.

9 comments:

Celestina Marie said...

Beautifully said Donna, We are keeping Paris In our prayers. God Bless all those that lost loved ones. It is all so sad. Your post was very moving and gave such a personal touch about the people of France.
Thank you for sharing. Hugs.

Linda @ A La Carte said...

Donna you know how much my heart loves Paris and this had made me so sad. I found the people there to be so friendly. Well said my friend.

Linda

NanaDiana said...

Donna - When I heard about the tragedy in Paris I immediately thought of you...and, selfishly, I thought, "I'm glad Donna wasn't over there." We just never know the day or time that evil will rear its ugly head. I am sickened by those that take lives so ruthlessly with no thought other than for their own selfish gain (that is not really a gain at all).
God bless France..our sister country...one filled with brothers and sisters.
I believe that your heart might be heavier than most because of the time you have spent there.
God bless Paris! xo Diana

Row homes and Cobblestones said...

Donna I believe, hope and pray love is stronger than hate. My heart aches,
sending love.

Butterfly 8)(8 Bungalow said...

I love the photos of the various Madonnas. She is very comforting to look at in times of sorrow.
One of my favorite pastimes in Europe is visiting churches.

xoxo Su

Musings from Kim K. said...

I thought of you when the social media starting flooding with the terrible news, Donna. Continued prayers for the people of France.

Cynthia said...

I am so sad for things that are going on around the globe and for a beautiful city such as Paris to be changed forever is just that SAD. Very wonderful tribute. Our prayers go out to them.

Cindy

Susie said...

Donna, I have to say, I thought of you when I heard about Paris...I wondered if you had been to the places that were struck with the evil terror. I am angry and hurt that this has happened. Our wonderful world is no longer as it was when I was growing up.Live was tough for my family but people were kind, maybe kinder than now...there sure was less evil people doing harm. Blessings to you Donna, Hoping one day you can return and it be safe in Paris. xoxo,Susie

Tete said...

My heart has been so sick over all of this, I cannot imagine how it is for you. I thought of you right away when it happened and was grateful that you were not there at that time. Prayers for them, for us, for anyone in their path. Such evil must end.