My Trip to France, or How To Save The World

A few days ago, I returned from a 10 day trip to France.  Paris, my home abroad, always seems to bring out the best in me.  Even on no sleep, I'm constantly inspired and energized to "take on the day" (a phrase drilled into me each morning by my former roommate in Paris, Jeff), and pursue greater meaning in my life.  From the brilliant art and architecture to the humble accordion music played by the panhandlers on the metro, one can't help but feel alive in this great city.  It's good to know those days of living in Paris as a student, waxing philosophical with friends over some cheap (but great) red wine, were not simply the vestiges of youth, but rather a mindset I can return to again and again.  

This trip I also traveled to the south of France. The Provence region, and all the quaint little towns we visited were exceptionally charming, with great food and wine, and incredibly picturesque surroundings. We met some great people along the way. I have to say, the concept of personal space is quite different in France.  When you get into an elevator, the French don't avoid conversation.  And at a restaurant, you're almost always sitting a scant few inches away from another table.  A simple, "Can I borrow your pepper?" can lead to an enthralling conversation replete with the joy of cross-cultural connection, and the sense that we are are all more alike than we are different.

My love for music is closely related to my passion for languages, and I have spent much time honing my French skills. The French people we met were overjoyed to find an American well-versed in their language and culture, and I found there was an openness and generosity of spirit.   Of this I am convinced: our world would be a much better place if we all took a little more time to communicate, understand, and respect each other. 

I return to the US refreshed, and invigorated with a healthy dose of perspective, 8 bottles of incredible wine, and an eagerness to make more music, the universal language.