Paris ponderings

I'm on the train home from meeting one of my students. He lives on the other side of Paris, but he graciously met and toured me around our Paris office and helped me print a few things. I wrote messages on the desks of several of my former students, and chatted with a few colleagues in the office as well. I'm feeling very reflective on this 1.5 hr ride back to the hotel. Grateful, for the people like him who are in my life. And grateful for his gang of buddies who also support and cheer me on, and to whom a selfie was sent 😊

Today has been interesting. I'm in Paris for an event that I'm hosting the next two days. I'm terrified. I want it to succeed. I want it to be valuable. I've poured countless hours of worry into this event, for better or worse. I want to utilize all the resources given me to the fullest extent. 

I've poured over my guide, printed papers, trying for success tomorrow. And matters seem complicated as my botched crown replacement from Boston seems to have worked itself loose, and I desperately scour my brain for best time to visit my new dentist and wonder if he will even be available for me with my schedule. 

And yet tonight was a drink with a friend. Catching up on life and love, dreams and loss. Each voicing insecurities and fears and resting assured of the other's full support. Lingering over a basket of crusty bread and some avacado toast, the pleasant time marred only by the thought of the long respective journeys home. While I walked to the office in pouring cold rain, after valiantly trying to exit the building but being thwarted at every turn (I did finally make it out), the sun shone through the after work time, beaming a halo on his head. The sun set beautifully, giving way to silver lined clouds, behind the many financial buildings dotting the esplanade. 

I met the Paris office training manager. She reminded me of our first meeting, three years ago. Someone had asked when I was moving to Europe and I had vehemently opposed the idea. She expressed her shock when she heard I was moving to Luxembourg as well as her admiration for my courage. It reminded me of the growth as well as the pain of change these past few years. 

Tonight I'm grateful. For this job, and the chance to succeed or fail at my events this week. For my previous role, and putting me in contact with these incredible humans across the world. For the cheerleaders who supported and catapulted me into my present successess. And also for the inviting bed beckoning to me tonight.