As I was searching for a photo for this post, I came upon the one below, taken in the home repair section of BHV. I never felt any danger in Paris during my visit. Signs marked well the "danger" spots -- a tricky staircase, a barricade. Sure, things can happen. A fall, a pickpocket, some sort of accident. But we are aware of these possibilities and suitably vigilant.
Now the people of Paris -- and really, the people of the world -- will find themselves becoming all the more so. There are no signs on a building or steps to warn us that a bomb will explode at a stadium, that terrorists will shoot us at a concert or that joy of dining at a Paris cafe will be obliterated by violence.
As I am grateful to learn of the safety of my Paris friends, I mourn the loss of that sense of bliss, bliss to be replaced by caution. But Paris has survived many terrible events in its time and if there is one thing that I believe with all my heart is that Paris will never stand down.
And we will stand with it.
20 comments:
I am praying for them, too, Jeanie. Such a terrible thing...
I'm not sure what I would like for our President to do, but I hope with all my being that he tells France we stand with them, side by side.
A beautiful post, for a city I have visited and I cherish above all others in Europe. So sad.
Such an impossible and imponderable course of events. You have captured the spirit that I feel as well.
best... mae
We're all with Paris in our hearts right now, but I know that city is truly special for you. I loved your thoughtful post. Indeed, the people of Paris are in our thoughts and prayers.
I was so saddened when I learned about Friday night's events. It's very sad to see something like that happen anywhere in the world but particularly sad when it happens in a place where I have left a piece of my heart. My heart just breaks for all impacted by this horrible act of terrorism.
Praying with all those who pray for Paris and others parts of the world where peace and safety is an issue.
This was shocking and terrible news, Jeanie and I am still reeling from it myself. Sending love and hugs your way; praying for the tender hearts of humanity that they remain open and responsive.
We will indeed stand with Paris and all the other places that have been hit with violence. I will be going to Paris next year and vigilant is the word for traveling anywhere.
I continue to be shocked. After the attacks, I heard someone refer to the people of Paris as resilient but fragile. What a juxtaposition. I wish them healing.
Hi Jeanie, This is a terrible thing for France. Praying for France……………...
Joining you in prayer and sorrow, Jeanie.
So sorry for Paris; such a horrible thing
The forces unseen are waging a war that can only be won in the spirit. I pray for restoration of mind and heart for all involved!!!!!
Oh Jeanie.....I too have a great love of Paris and could hardly believe the news of the terrible tragedy.....and all in the name of religion......what a mess!!
xo
Jo
Oh Jeanie you're so right! You've done better than me I couldn't find the words ... yours are perfect :)
Hugs
Wren x
I thought of you Jeanie when I was thinking of Paris, and, like you, mentally going over those areas which are so familiar from past visits. Your post is inspiring and echoes what I feel and I do agree that Paris is too old to fail to recover from this. I was so inspired to see the singing La Marseillaise at the England-France football match at Wembley
It was obviously hard for Lassana Diarra (the smaller guy who looked overcome)as his cousin was one of the victims. But it was a real outpouring of support. http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/34849505 We were driving quite near the stadium this evening and it looked fine lit up in the colours of the tricoleur.
So true dear Jeanie.
When we were there in June/July, Paris was full of joie de vivre!
The weather was perfect and people were happily going about their daily business.
We saw only one armed soldier and that was at Les Invalides.
It was 5/6 months since the Charlie Hebdo attack and Parisians had relaxed.
My heart is heavy following the latest attack.
This is different - the world has changed.
I feel so sad for the Syrian refugees looking for a safe haven for their families - how desperate they must feel.
We all long for a peaceful outcome but in my heart I fear the worst.
We can hope and pray.
Sending hugs your way too Jeanie.
Shane x
The evil in the world is real, it is good that we can come together across the country and unite with one another. Prayers for Paris, for America, for mankind.
xo
Jemma
I learned about the news the same day I was going to Moscow for my short travel. I was looking forward to that day but after reading the news...my mood had just collapsed. I was in constant worry and nervous the whole time I was there.
It is so sad. Those victims could be just any of us. The news about the confirmation that an explosive had caused the Russian plane from Egypt with 200+ passengers (no suvivor) came the next day. It was just as devastating.
All I can do is pray.
A beautiful and thoughtful post Jeanie
THANK YOU!!
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