Tuesday, April 25, 2017

I Am Back After Absence

Ah, I have not posted in about two years now. Still, I want to say that Emmanuel Macron winning this week has made me very happy.

I was so afraid that Le Pen would win! Still, France is so divided: Paris and the West support other parties. The East, including Lorraine is very much for Marine Le Pen.  😨😥😰

Thursday, February 12, 2015

Tuesday, January 13, 2015

Je Suis Charlie

No, not the publication.  It is often rude and vulgar and low classe.  But we are for the right of freedom of expression.  That is why we protest.  France, and the free world, will not be cowed.

Monday, March 31, 2014

John Donne on Virginity

I call not that virginity a virtue, which resideth onely in the bodies integrity; much less if it be with a purpose of perpetually keeping it: for then it is a most inhumane vice. - But I call that Virginity a virtue which is willing and desirous to yield it self upon honest and lawfull terms, when just reason requireth; and until then, is kept with a modest chastity of body and mind.

John Donne (1572 - 1631)

Monday, August 26, 2013

Marriage, French-Style

In France, in order to be considered legally married, one must undergo a civil ceremony.  Afterwards, couples could have a religious ceremony, if they wish; but only the civil ceremony is recognized by law.

A large number of couples forego both, and live together in a free relationship.  In America, this is referred to as "shacking up."  Actually, with the decline of religion in Europe, religious ceremonies are on the eclipse. 

While the magistrate can look formidable in his sash, and many are very skilled in making it impressive, there is still the sense that one must also have the religious ceremony in order to be truly wedded.  Legality is not enough.

Yes!  The proper white wedding dress, the church setting, the solemn words of the priest, the vows, the candles, the rice thrown, and the post-wedding picture of all attendees.  And, yes, the bells! 

Usually, no whistles.

I am pleased to mention that the American custom of removing the  bride's garter, and throwing it to the unmarried boys, has not caught on.  However, in Gascony the groom does remove the bride's panties and throw those!  I'm glad that we will not do that!