Thursday, June 02, 2005

France...a ma cherie

Well, I know it has been a while, but I think I have allowed France to percolate in my brain long enough. This was by far the most amazing, memorable and enjoyable experience of my life, easily. Every moment I can replay instantly in my head, it's like a movie. I love a quote I found from Ernest Hemingway, "If you are lucky enough to have lived in Paris as a young man, then wherever you go the rest of your life, it stays with you...For Paris is a moveable feast." And what a feast it was. The sights, sounds, smells and the ambience of being in a different world was electric. Delia and I are already making plans to live there someday in the future. This trip to Paris changed my life. It strengthened my already steadfast belief that I am finally doing what God intends for me to do with my life, music. I could not fathom the beauty and majesty of Notre Dame as we sang from the sanctuary steps, thinking that we were singing the same language and scripture that had been echoed throughout those halls for centuries before us. The immensity and grandeur of the Eiffel Tower. It was awe inspiring. I never knew it was so gigantic. I can remember every second of every day as if I am still there. I may have left Paris, but I don't believe Paris will ever leave me. This was one of those life experiences that make you who you are, and I can't express enough gratitude to Dr. Copeland for making it happen.
Charles
P.s. there will be more on the music making of the trip later