Finding the Human Side of Tranquility

Finding the unexpected in this city is not difficult as it confronts you at every turn if you are only willing to look. The morning finds us crossing a cultural divide as we stretch our legs in the direction of Avenue L'Armee at the Porte Maillot stations. Expecting a quaint side of the city, we found the Porte MALL. Naturally challenged in a mall, we walked completely around it until we gave up trying to find anything interesting but modern Paris. The subway took us to a different world however.

Off the subway at Argentine, we did find the Avenue and quickly realized this was the centerpiece for any gear head. Not that I mind, but it just isn't my thing. The street is lined with car (voiture) dealerships, motorcycle shops and repairs, bicycle stores and all thing mechanic. It is a window shoppers paradise for all thing "motor". Upon reaching the walkway of the Arch de Triumph, we were able to walk the full length of the Champs Elysee with "Freeman in Paris" resounding in our minds.

Sidetracked from the main Boulevard, the Palais Royale, Petit Palace and the Alexander Bridge filled with gilded lampposts, takes us in a new direction. The dark rainclouds loom above but Simone Bolivar, Winston Churchill and Clemenceau statues stand as a testament to the honor paid for and assistance to humankind during times of crisis. Their firm and imposing presence cause one to pause and reflect on the world outside the city and the influences the global community has made. but beyond the political influences lie the ordinary man- the man who inhabits and lives, breathes and works here. They are in all shapes and sizes, but those most likely to attract my attention are the homeless, out of work or poverty stricken with their animals. They enhabit the sidewalks, doorways, corners, alleys and niches of the city. Seeing them with their animals brings out the best in me and I have to chip in and do my fair share. I must think it goes for the welfare of the animal and i merely cannot resist.

The 2 hefty dachshunds sitting upright in the bearded mans lap, the calico cat sitting atop the kitty carrier and the golden lab carrying a basket in his mouth for "contributions" and a lapping kiss. It doesn't seem unusually sad as they all look well cared for and fed, but I still have to give of myself to the animals and their owners of the world. I know I would want to be helped out if I needed it. Each time, 1-4e seems little to give when I and my animals (dog and 2 cats) are fine. A man with an organ grinder on the Grande Boulevard with his sleeping dog and cat under an umbrella come to mind. I have not seen them this trip and worry that the animals have passed...

This afternoon, i head to the 18th Arrondissment....