Whoa!

     Although we have been to many places of great importance the first thing I obviously noticed is how different it is here. That is a very broad statement because of course everything is different here. However, what I have noticed is that the attitudes of the people in Strasbourg, and Europe for that matter, are much more relaxed. For example, I feel like if someone was running late to an event it would not be as big of a deal as it would be in the United States.
     As you are riding a bus and you look out the window you see people soaking in the atmosphere and strolling to their destination, with a few exceptions. If you compare a bus ride in New York to this it would be the opposite. New Yorkers would be running you over fixed on their destination, almost like they have blinders on.
    One of my Belgium professors at WVU said that he had never been as stressed before in his life, and he never had to take naps, before he came to the United States. I was confused when he said this but now I understand. I feel like it has rubbed off in the short time we have been here on me. I am a giant worry wart but here I sit, two days before class starts, unaware of what I am taking or how to do anything and I have no stress.
    I am not saying Europeans are perfect but they just have a different view on life. It is much more pleasurable life. A life to enjoy. They have longer vacations, a shorter work week and more benefits. I think we, Americans, could learn something from the Europeans about just slowing down and enjoying life more.
-Tyler Underwood