Paris connections
10 years ago I happened to be in Paris for the US elections. It was a disastrous trip in many respects, punctuated by the angst and shock me and my American friends here felt over the results. I hadn’t planned to be here again for an election, but that’s how it worked out. I arrived Monday morning for a very quick stopover before Belgium and Normandy. I am very lucky to have the opportunity to travel, and I admit it felt good to get away from the endless texts, phone calls and junk mail and focus on more personal connections.
I’m now on the train for Belgium, relieved to have woken up to the incredible midterm results this morning. I’m letting myself feel optimistic for one small moment, but there is so much work to be done. I see this feeling of urgency and frustration everywhere I go.
Once again, I feel so blessed with the good friends in my life. I’m staying with a close friend of 25 years. Last night we grabbed dinner with another, more recent friend. The fall weather is just the right amount of chilly. I love seeing the changing leaves. It feels almost exotic after decades in California.
I have another week of travel ahead of me, with several more train rides to go. More soon.