Facing reality, thinking differently

First things first: France is wonderful. I have truly enjoyed my time here, taking in the culture, (attempting to) learn the language, traveling with friends, dining with my French family, engaging in interesting conversations with classmates, professors, and other individuals I’ve met.



However, sometimes I fear that I have provided a rather skewed picture of France. I feel guilty: I’ve had a really great semester - and not all are so blessed.

Many of the same issues that plague America fall on France as well. With the new economic downturn, unemployment has hit hard, especially among the young. Homelessness is not hard to encounter. Racist or prejudicial comments and actions are unnerving, but not uncommon. Diversity is lacking. Worries about the EU’s success and Asian assertiveness are growing.



So despite the blessings that fall on many of us, we can’t forget the difficulties that many people around the world experience on a day-to-day basis. We need to change the way we analyze thought processes, decisions, and actions.

Case in point: I spent 7.40 euro on a large café and a dessert today while out with a friend.

1/3 of the world’s population lives on less than 2 dollars a day.



I think many of us – myself certainly included – need to realize that our individual worlds, and the decisions we make in them, have more influence on this global society than we normally think.

Let’s integrate our values into our daily decisions:

Let your congressman know about the policies that matter to you: https://writerep.house.gov/writerep/welcome.shtml
For every pair you buy at TOM's, you cover a bare child’s feet: www.toms.com
Supporting ethical labor practices through buying fair trade: globalmamas.org