Towards Paris - An Introduction

Paris has long been inspiration for many creative souls and I am one such soul. Those of you finding yourselves eagerly nodding in accord with this statement understand that this pull towards Paris is not initiated by conscious or rationalized choice. We are drawn effortlessly towards Paris, its magnetic force captivating us wholly.

Paris is not merely a travel destination and it is not some kind of final destination. Rather, it seems to be a magnificent gateway to the pursuit of dreams and the creative spirit. We don't aspire to see Paris so we can die (i.e., "I have to see Paris one day before I die") but we aspire to see Paris so we can live fully, pushing beyond a mere existence. Paris awakens and opens us to living out our creative and perceptive selves so completely and with such vitality.

Before our own eyes behold Paris for the first time, we have already experienced Paris so vividly and richly through literature, poetry, history, art, fashion, food, and its many other far-reaching influences. It pervades our imagination and our souls. And even after we arrive in Paris the first, second, umpteenth time... we are forever drawn towards Paris, for the beauty and inspiration is never exhausted. Paris gives so freely and abundantly, asking only that we never cease to be filled with wonder for all that we find in the beautiful City of Light.

This blog is a tribute to the city I love so much, the city that will always captivate and inspire me. As I prepare for just my second trip to Paris (I'll be spending a month there in July; see the countdown timer below), I'll share my anticipation and thoughts about the upcoming trip here on this blog, along with my experiences while in Paris. This blog will also include a myriad of Paris-themed posts, including features on food and treasures, and then more philosophical posts on what Paris means symbolically to me.

Although the title of this blog seems to point specifically to my upcoming trip, it extends beyond such. Even after this upcoming trip in July, I will forever feel this sensation of being drawn towards Paris. A week, month or year in Paris will never satiate the desire to return, even to return in spirit. As alluded to above, it is not a final destination, Paris is a touchstone for living out my creative self and doing so fully.

I look forward to sharing experiences with you fellow lovers of Paris, Francophiles, creative souls, and all who might find inspiration here.