Thursday, January 19, 2012

the hills are alive

It's nearly the end of week two in France and it's amazing to reflect on the life changes I have undergone in such a short period of time.  One thing that I have really enjoyed is the rhythm of life here.  We have prayers in the mornings and evenings, before breakfast and dinner respectively, and while at first I thought it too formal and cold, I have come to really enjoy the times of silence, taize prayers, and lectionary readings.  I am inspired by the diligence and hearts of service of my Catholic brothers and sisters here.  Some of them dress very traditionally, which I was initially put off by, but I have come to understand that they are trying to honor their beliefs in every single part of their lives, including the way the dress.  Last week-end some of my new friends and I explored Angers together.

This is Valeria, Ana, Me and Angelica.  Valeria and Angelica are from Venezuela and Ana is from Spain.  They are learning French as preparation to serve in a school in Benin.  Angelica is one of the funniest people at the school and Ana has the best french! I've learned a lot from her.

The girls told me that they have had a harder time in France wearing their habits around - kids in Paris shouted at them in the streets.  I imagine it is difficult for them to look like they are from a different time.  They run in their habits, swim, bike and more! Angelica likes to play basketball particularly.  She said it's actually freeing because there is little movement restriction.  Not sure if I will try it anytime soon, but your never know...

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