FROM PARIS, WITH LOVE Hawks abroad respond to acts of terror with messages of hope
Tahliah D’Ottavio, ’17 Living in a home stay in the 8th arrondissement in Paris, France
Vanessa Marques, ’17 Living in the 14th arrondissement in Paris, France
Sara Leonetti, ’17 Studying in the 14th arrondissement in Paris, France
Andrew Nguyen, ’17 Living in the Belleville neighborhood of Paris, France
“Paris is full of policemen monitoring everyone’s moves. Once I arrived at my home stay [on Sunday night], which is by a tourist attraction and many government buildings, I was stopped by the police. They asked me several questions. Since I am a study abroad student, I could not prove my residence in the neighborhood with my passport. I was walked to the front door and was watched putting the door code and unlocking the main ground portal with a key. I knew then that Paris will no longer be the same. There are candles with flowers in many areas for prayers for the losses of many. As I walked to a grocery store this afternoon, I learned that the restaurant that I went with my boyfriend two weeks ago lost two of its waiters at the Bataclan shooting. One was our waiter, and I immediately recognized his face on a picture surrounded with dozens of bouquets and flowers. This shooting affected the lives of many Parisians, and all my respect and prayers go to everyone affected by this tragedy. “
“Watching Friday night unfold on the news was an absolute nightmare. My heart remains heavy for the victims and their friends and family. We got an email from our program directors indicating that classes were on for this week because “life goes on.” At first, I thought, wow, a little harsh... what just happened is a big deal and I’m still really shaken up. Monday came, and they were right. Parisians were going to work, buying their baguettes, conversing at cafes. Although it was a day of mourning, it was a beautiful day full of calm, positive vibes. I thank my professors and program directors for making me realize that we mustn’t let our fear stop us from living. I have two months left in this beautiful city, and regardless of the bad happening, I plan to make the best of it while taking any safety precautions necessary.”
“I only ask that you all keep Paris, as well as the other cities affected by these attacks, in your thoughts and prayers during this time. Paris has become my second home and I know that this beautiful city will overcome this terrible tragedy. While things are still a little scary here, the media is making it seem a lot worse. Life has continued here in Paris as usual, and we will hopefully be back to normal very soon. The resilience of the French people has been astounding. They have been an inspiration to me as I have witnessed their bravery and drawn on their strength during this time. All of your messages of love and support have also been very comforting and let me know that I am not alone. During times like these, we must all come together as one human race. Today we are all Parisians.”
“My apartment is one metro stop away or a 10 minute walk from Le Petit Cambodge, one of the many devastating attack sites. If not for my boyfriend visiting me that weekend, I could have been just heading out of my apartment in the 11th arrondissement to meet up with friends. Life is precious and to be appreciated. I have seen how resilient the Parisians are, and I have seen them come together to mourn the victims, as well as show that they stand together—unafraid. This is what we should do in recognizing our common humanity along with appreciating and understanding our individual differences. Let’s please just love and try our best to convey unconditional love for our neighbor and especially our enemy. It is the most powerful thing in the universe.”