Soul Path Insights

Ever since I heard the French song “Angelina” by PSY, my fascination with the French language blossomed. I was still in high school then. I didn’t understand the song, but it sounded so beautiful to me. That’s when I resolved to learn French and immerse myself in its culture. Curious about the song’s meaning, I made a promise to myself to look up the lyrics someday. However, after I learned French, I got distracted with other things and never looked up the lyrics. Instead, I read French books and listened to other songs, allowing my new passion to grow.

My fascination with “Angelina” served as a gateway to learning French and ultimately living in France. Living in France was a dream come true. My first visit to France was in the summer of 2003 when I signed up for a summer study abroad program. It was one of the most exciting things I’ve ever done, and it was also my first time going to Europe. You can only imagine how thrilling it was for me.

When I flew into Europe, I first flew to England and made a stop in London for a few days. Before I left, I contacted people through my church connections since I didn’t know anyone there. I made friends with students from the University of Reading. Through the church, I contacted a person named Richard. Although Richard didn’t know anyone in London, he connected me to one of his friends, who was also a university student. I stayed with her for a few nights before moving to a spare room at a married Finnish couple’s house, also friends of Richard.

That summer, I made a lot of British friends thanks to my church connections. After my short stay in Reading, I proceeded to Paris. I stayed at an apartment hotel in the 13th arrondissement, Place d’Italie. This area is known for its multicultural atmosphere, particularly with a significant Asian community. Place d’Italie is surrounded by several tourist attractions like Butte-aux-Cailles, Parc de Choisy, the National Library of France, and Jardin des Plantes, all of which offer a variety of experiences.

When my program started, we spent the mornings in class and some afternoons on field trips. Sometimes, we took day trips outside the city, visiting vineyards, country châteaux, and medieval French towns just outside of Paris. I learned a lot about French culture that summer. The program lasted for six unforgettable weeks. This French experience served as a gateway to my almost yearly visits to Europe.

Soul Insights

1. Follow Your Passions:
   • A seemingly small interest, like a song, can lead to profound life changes. Embracing and pursuing your passions can open doors to unexpected and enriching experiences.
2. Take Opportunities When They Arise:
   • Signing up for a summer study abroad program was a spontaneous decision that led to invaluable experiences. Seizing opportunities, even when they seem daunting, can lead to growth and adventure.
3. The Value of Networking:
   • Reaching out through church connections and making new friends abroad demonstrates the importance of building and maintaining a supportive network. These connections can provide support and enrich your experiences.
4. Embrace Cultural Diversity:
   • Living in a multicultural environment, like the 13th arrondissement in Paris, teaches the importance of embracing and learning from different cultures. It broadens perspectives and deepens understanding.
5. Lifelong Learning:
   • Continuing to visit Europe almost yearly shows that learning and passion do not have to end after a single experience. Lifelong learning keeps the mind active and the heart engaged, leading to a fulfilling life.

© 2024 Amelie Chambord