Je Suis Charlie

Things are pretty crazy in France right now.  I actually first heard about everything happening with Charlie Hebdo from messages from people back in the states asking if I was alright.  And ever since then France has been aflame with fury and sadness and a longing to try and make things right.  To set the record straight, I am fine.  I appreciate all those who have checked in on me but there is no reason to worry, I am hours away from Paris.  The day the attack happened there was a peaceful gathering in our city center where people came out and lit candles and displayed their pens in solidarity with the victims.  The following day we had a moment of silence in my school.
One thing I love about this country is how passionate the French are.  They strike.  They protest.  They fight for what is right.  I remember when it was 9/11 I didn't really understand what was happening because I was too young.  Now being here in France in this time of crisis I have been able to really understand what is happening and understand the devastation it has caused the French people as well as people around the world.  Today a few friends and I participated in a peaceful march in solidarity with the victims.  Even in our tiny town of Clermont, there were thousands of people, holding signs, standing and marching together. It is a tragic event that is hard to wrap your head around, but the people here are doing all they can.