Happiness In Paris!

Written By: JacQuitta Beeks

Edited By: Shelly Travis

Just from the tweets, videos and images Shelly Travis has posted, I can tell she is enjoying herself in Paris. I read over her first story comparing the lives and cultural customs of Americans and Parisians. In America, our actions aren't as big as our words. In her story "First Day: Parisians Life vs. Texas Life", "... they move with a purpose. I learned quickly to be aware of those that move quicker than me and to not be in the way.” It takes a lot to adjust to a new lifestyle, even if you’re just visiting a country for a short time. Shelly seems to be picking up on things and adjusting quickly. She also noticed the difference in the way Parisians take the time to sit and enjoy their meal and the company they kept. But here, American people will get their food to go. 

I'm very interested in hearing and reading about the seminars and lectures that she is experiencing as well. I can only imagine how different the learning atmosphere is over there than it is here. In one of Shelly’s tweets, she said "As Americans we believe in the more the merrier, but the French find pleasure in the small things". Which I definitely agree with. We tend to want more and more even if it is not necessarily needed. In addition, many Americans hold their hands out as if the world owes them something instead of working hard for what they want. We tend to not appreciate the simple things like sitting and communicating with others or taking our time to enjoy a meal and our surroundings.

Shelly took a picture inside of Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris. She attended Mass there Sunday Morning. After she wrote, “It was a touching experience.” Most Americans aren't Catholic so religion and practices seem different, but really the only difference is in the language. It is amazing that she is able to experience mass in French in such an awesome place and have a deep appreciation for it.