“Chicago is the most beautiful city in the world,” is indeed a bold statement. That was until I encountered Paris.
Paris has a lot of cosmopolitan charm; it’s bold, beautiful, crazy busy, crowded and exudes an exotic global appeal. The city presents a timeless, classic aesthetic that seamlessly integrates with the modern, embodying both contemporary sophistication and historical grandeur. I suppose the same could be said for a number of European cities. My affinity for large, metropolitan cities finds Paris nearly irresistible.
Beneath the dim glow of the autumn evening, Paris becomes truly magical. The view from the Eiffel Tower reveals a tapestry of landmarks, each more charming than the last. The waterways, the broad avenues, the Champs Elysees, the majestic Musee du Louvre, the impressive Notre Dame, and the cobblestone streets all weave together in harmony.
The city’s energy is palpable, with its people and culture exuding an exotic charm, and fashionably dressed, stunning women adding to the allure.
Narrow streets bustle with taxis expertly weaving through the traffic, while cyclists, far from leisurely riding, assert their right to hustle along the ‘rue de whatever’ avenue just as much as the motorists, all part of the city’s vibrant rhythm.
Perhaps this explains the seemingly lower rates of obesity at first glance, especially when compared to Chicago.
The traffic, the hustle, the throngs of people—all part of humanity, God’s creations. We are fundamentally alike, with similar aspirations, desires, loves, and everything that lies in between.
We are all the same; any theory suggesting otherwise is false.
I also remember the beautifully crafted words of the Psalmist:
“I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence!
If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans, even there your hand will guide me, and your strength will support me.”
Psalms 139:7, 9-10 NLT
The Presence is here, just as much as in Chicago, inescapable, all-knowing, all-seeing, always speaking.
I love it. To be continued.
That I May Know Him! 