Went to Paris to celebrate. I rode in on the coattails of this cutie and her amazing students, where they mic dropped a legendary viola performance for the ages. Coincidentally, I turned 50 during the trip and celebrated with a crew of the best humans on earth. Friends old and new. Many thoughts and feelings about the journey, primarily that joy can exist even during times of tragedy. And that graphic design is the art form which will take care of you when you’re overwhelmed and anxious about participating in a culture where you don’t understand the language. I also learned a few things from the French about managing power dynamics in politics. As a bonus, our taxi driver told us about the time he had Shaq in his cab. “As beeg as ze Eiffel Tower!”
The young fellow at the breakfast counter seemed tired. Perhaps he had been up late making plans. His eyes still contained that bright sparkle of adventures yet to unfold. It was difficult to guess his age. His smile was genuine, seemingly uninjured by the weight of life. But his mustachioed face bore the signs of someone who already knew how heavy the world can feel upon tired shoulders. I had to marvel at the presence of this mysterious man before me. I felt that I had known him for quite some time even though we had only just met. He reminded me of the greatest men I had ever known, men who had left this earth while fighting the good fight. In his presence, I was embraced by courage, strength, and humor so sharp it could cut through any sadness. It’s a rare privilege to be in the presence of someone so magnificent. Today, I resolve to stand up tall like this man. I resolve to be brave and to face the unknown dangers which await me in the void. I resolve to believe in my indomitable spirit and to help others discover theirs. I resolve to let this moment teach me all that I’ve forgotten.
