Notre Dame has been on nearly every traveler’s bucket list, especially those who dream about the city of Paris, France. While visiting Paris, I knew that this is one of those must-see attractions; however, I came so close to missing it!
This was my first time being on a 6 hour difference time schedule. The city was gorgeous, although the rain didn’t seem to want to cut us any slack. During our fourth day in the city, we were exhausted. That evening we arrived back to our Airbnb, did the usual seven-story walk up, and laid on the bed in our temporary tiny home.
We were tempted to call it a night at that point. We had an early train to Belgium the next day and we had been walking around all day long. The only major Paris thing we had not seen was Notre Dame. We would have to get back into our wet shoes, go down seven flights of stairs, walk to the train, and then have that lovely seven-story walk up once again when we got back.
We decided that it was now or never and headed down the winding stairs. The first thing we noticed of the cathedral was its marvelous architecture. We went inside and were lucky enough to see a service that was happening at the time. There was a sense of community that was far beyond a religious experience. People from very different backgrounds had all gathered and traveled here just to appreciate a truly beautiful place. An architectural beauty that is forever cemented in the hearts of many.
The lesson learned for us, if not painfully obvious, is that it is always worth it to venture out to that one last thing you didn’t go see. Even if it means having to brave the elements, pay a little extra, or being out during a busy time. I would much rather regret something that I took the time to do, rather than regret something that I simply didn’t make time for. Months or year later, you’ll have that memory and not the memory of your temporary “inconveniences.”
Is there a place that you’ve decided to visit at the last minute?
So true. We certainly have regret we did not go inside in 2017. We did see it in 1984 and 2007, but one last look would have meant so much now. Thanks for sharing. Allan
I was there many years ago. There was a very long line to get in. Since I was only there for one day, I had to pass it up, but at least I saw the outside. It was a great site to see. Nice photo of you by the way.
I just wanted to say hi and thank you for taking the time to visit my blog!
I created my blog as a sort of psychic living sacrifice, a digital burnt offering up to the ethers of the noosphere. It’s birthing a resurrection of sorts, like a phoenix rising up from the ashes. It’s a very personal labor of love so I value each and every connection that’s made.
I try my best to live by the core belief that every person that comes into our contact has someone we can learn from them, everyone has something to teach, and we in turn have something to offer, to teach them; and when those connections are fully realized and received, both parties grow deeper towards our own individual soul evolution and spiritual growth.
You have a beautiful blog and wonderful photography! I look forward to perusing your work and seeing what the universe has in store for both of us.
Take care!
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http://chrismarquezisdead.wordpress.com
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Oh yes : we never regret the things we did; the only regrets in life are things we didn’t do.
As you have rightly said, Notre Dame is in everyone’s bucket list. We were intending to do Paris in our next visit to Europe. And now this fire …. let us see what plans He has for me.