 |
| Arriving in France, and having the chance to live in Paris is a whole new great encouter. It, the first of being out of the Philippines. Stepping foot on France, from a 14 hour flight, the sun and the air is already a prelude on how different it is. Still looking from the eyes of a tourist, it is amazing how skimming the surface creates the mystery of this country and it's people. From its nationalistic culture and civilization, to the universal splendor of being human. The first remarkable observation one will have is that this city never sleeps. It is so alive day-in and day-out that this fast-paced lifestyle, coming from Manila, is not at all comparable to the meaning of speed here. People seems to be in so much pressure of time, of clock ticking, that even if one do have the time in his hands, would experience stress. As one would have to get into the flow not to obstruct the rolling of time. Generally, Filipinos have a light disposition, happy people. Who smile a lot, laugh a lot, and likes to make little quirks and jokes. It is quite surprising that it seems to be sort of out of place here. Smiles, laughter, and jokes are of course cultural to understand what they mean, but it is definetly not universal. To smile seemed to likewise have a schedule, or might mean something else to someone. Remembering a Thai friend saying that one's smile can just disappear like that. It is almost contagious. It does give a cold atmosphere in this city of lights. Filipinos recognize the value of rest in the delights of taking life lightly. One can say that the French are serious, almost quiet and reserved on the interim. Not to overlook having the language handicap, it becomes even more mysterious. One thing can mean another thing, even if it's translated in english. If to live in Paris, be prepared to be swept away by the speed and time, but take a second to smile, even it doesn't seem appropriate at times. Be patient, run along and you will get there. Find the interest in knowing someone to laugh with. Once knowing a French, it will be of great surprise on how so much familiar it could be. End the confusion by learning the language. It is a must actually, and it could open a lot of doors. Keep the Filipino in you, it will work. Paris is like being in an ant colony. Once you get in line, it all starts from there. Moving in the South of France, it is once more a different atmosphere, so far away from Paris. Things are not better or worse, they are just different. |
| Makis February 8, 2002 |