Slow down to enjoy the fine things in life.

I came here with the impression that French people are mean to Americans. I’ve heard that expression a million times. They are getting a bad rap. All the people we’ve encountered have been so pleasant and nice. I love hearing them say bon jour, merci and bonsoir. The words roll out as if it’s a song.

It’s fun to watch European people and notice the differences of our American culture.

First of all you do not see everyone rushing. They sit and drink their coffee and eat their meals. It is not on the run. I am observing an elderly gentleman right now. He Sits down and orders a coffee, opens his newspaper greets people with a smile and bonjour. He is taking his time with the newspaper. Think of how your over all day would be if it weren’t spent running and rushing first thing in the morning. This sets the course for the day.

Before and after school at the same cafe it becomes filled with school children in their Navy blazers meeting school mates. They have a coffee or beer and a cigarette. Laugh and talk. NO PHONES are seen. They talk to each other. Yes, cigarettes are very common and socially accepted here.

The only phones you see are the American tourists taking pictures. Yes, that’s me. The pace is slower. Everyone’s voice is lower too. You don’t hear each conversation, they speak quietly and gently to each other. At the end when they leave and course there is the kiss on each cheek.

Another huge difference is the way they dress. Clean, crisp, colors muted not flashy. Their is pride in their attire. The men and boys mostly look nicer than the girls. Their hair is cut and styled sleek, jeans pressed, stylish shirts, scarves and always a nice shoe. The women also are muted. Their natural beauty is exposed not over done with loud, colorful makeup. Gentle colors accentuating their beauty. They adorn beautiful jackets, shawls and coats. They can wear a ripped up jean as if it came off a run way.

The point I’m making here is they still live with the common values of what is important in life. They value, friendships, conversations and food. It’s an important element in life. They are outside in the street cafes laughing before and after school/work. It a lesson to be learned. Slow down, enjoy the people around you. Sip and enjoy the coffee instead of chugging it i your car. Most importantly surround yourselves with people you love.

💞