June 6, 2004

We've had a wonderful weekend enjoying France and all of its rich culture. I really feel like I am on a vacation here in Strasbourg, just soaking up as much French as I can. The French people love to eat, talk, and eat some more. I guess that's why I feel like I fit in here so well!

As is the case for any Sunday, all of the stores and little shops were closed. I sat by the Rhine River, reading my book and watching the boats float around the canal. Today is the day that the French celebrate Mother's Day. I noticed that the women were taking a break from the stresses of life.

Everywhere I looked, people were out lying on the riverbanks or stretched out on the park benches enjoying their afternoon. It's amazing how the French people are never in a hurry, but it’s not that they’re lazy. We just don't understand their culture and how time is relative here, just like space is relative in American culture.

Another thing that I've noticed since I've been here in Strasbourg is the role that the citizens play in raising children. The French feel that everyone in the city must help raise a couple's child.

I've seen women stop a child on the street and lecture that child on how to behave, even though they are not related to that child. You would never see that happen in the United States. We have an attitude that no one tells me how to raise my son/daughter, whereas in France the parents are appreciative for any help by strangers in raising their children. It takes an entire community in France to raise a child.