So, as I mentioned in my previous post, I have been struggling with some pain in my hips. This prevented me from getting around Paris (hence the large amount spent on Taxi rides!) because I had pain walking, standing or taking the stairs. It was a huge spiritual learning curve (and still is!!!) to be in a foreign country, away from family and friends, unable to get around on my own, not able to manage my pain and struggle with lots of anxieties. However, God is faithful and He was (and is!) watching out for me.
I had originally planned and booked my vacation to Paris on my own. I had booked a bed in 10 bed mixed dorm room hostel on my own. Several days before I left I found out that two other girls (one of which is in my course) were going to Paris at the same time. I cancelled my bed booking and booked a room to share between us three girls. This was the first major blessing - when I had to spend the entire day lying down in bed in Paris, I had an entire room to myself! Praise God for that!
Travelling with these girls also enabled me to get around a bit more than I would have on my own. We made sure to meet up every night for dinner at a French restaurant and sample "rea" French food and wine. It definitely made the day much more positive, especially when I was 'stuck' in one spot as I had trouble getting around.
I had a lot of pain so I also ended up taking taxis pretty much everywhere which is quite expensive in Paris. These girls, although they had bought unlimited public transport passes, were more than willing to split up the cost of the taxi fairs, despite my protests. What kindness!
Musee D'Orsay was one spot I really wanted to visit as they have impressionist and post-impressionist painters and I really enjoy that era. So, one afternoon I headed off to the museum, fully prepared to take it real slow and sit down every 1/2 hour or so. As I waited in line, I met a fellow Canadian gentleman, who was killing the weekend in Paris while on a business trip. We chatted for about 1/2 hour, and then, when we finally got into the museum suggested tackling the museum together. I told him to go on ahead as I would be VERY slow - He declined and said that it was not problem. Not only was he extremely patient with me as I had to sit down regularly, he was also quite knowledgeable about the art and so I had my own private tour!
At the end of the visit, he kindly offered to take me to my train to make sure that I got onto the right one. However, just before we left he stopped in the gift shop and purchased me a Museum guide filled with pictures of many of the paintings. I was, and still am, overwhelmed by the kindness of a stranger. It still brings tears to my eyes to experience such generosity and thoughtfulness. I unfortunately don't remember his name, but I pray that I will learn from this. I can only praise God for this man and wonder, was he an angel?
On my return train journey into Paris, I received a text from a friend in London who offered to meet me at the station in London and carry my bag home for me. Again, I am overwhelmed by God's provision!
Although I am still struggling with pain and frustration over getting around, God has shown that he cares for me through the acts of strangers and friends. He has taught me that He is a God of compassion, generosity and mercy. I hope and pray that I will not forget this but will, when called upon, enact that same spirit of generosity to others!
"It is more blessed to give than receive." Acts 20:35
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