Passengers often ask, “How long is your layover?” When I respond, “twenty-four hours,” they inevitably reply, “Oh, is that all? That’s too bad.” But actually, it’s perfect. You know why? Because I’ll be back again next week.
Flight attendants get to know cities in small bites. Typically, we have time for one experience at a time: one museum, one dinner, one performance…
For the past few months, I’ve been lucky enough to spend one day a week in Paris. So I decided to start a series and share these small bites with you. Come with me, mon cherie, for Tuesdays in Paris.
Let’s start here because I know you want to.
Notre Dame is open once again, and she looks stunning.
Actually, I visited her back in December, as you can tell from all the coats.
But no matter the season, if you have 24 hours in Paris, it’s not a bad way to spend them.
And if you only have 24 hours in Paris, I recommend that you don’t queue up in the looong line to get in. Instead, arrive shortly before mass and queue up in the worshipers’ line.
This line has preference, and it’s much faster. Besides, once you’re in, you’re in. You don’t have to attend the mass if you choose not to. But I did. It was December 22, and I thought it was a privilege to attend mass right before Christmas in this magnificent sanctuary that was almost lost to the world.
In 2019, we all watched in horror as fire engulfed the beloved cathedral. However, the minute the flames were extinguished, donations began to pour in. President Macron promised to reopen her doors within five years. As a world citizen, I sent in my $25, and if possible, felt even more attached to her. I wasn’t alone. This place means a lot to many people. A total of $900 million was raised through big and small donations from 340,000 individuals across 150 countries. I love it when the world pulls together.
Look what we can do!
I’m joking. My $25 can’t take any credit for this, but at 862 years old, she really does look better than ever. And if you get to Paris, you should pay her a visit.
Somehow, I scored a nearly front row seat to mass.
Afterwards, I strolled around the cathedral to view the surrounding chapels and alcoves dedicated to various saints.
I also saw a display commemorating the firefighters who saved her. Can you see the ash seared to the cross?
To really get an appreciation for the restoration, here’s a before picture I borrowed from the internet.
Thank God, thank the firefighters, and thank her many patrons that we didn’t lose her.
Notre Dame: Our Lady
