Rich

Just a note from an American in Europe.  I first learned of the news at a 
small shop one block from Notre Dame in Paris.  What has happened at home is 
before us always.    We have to struggle to keep it from overwhelming us.  
Today's, Sunday, Telegraph was so full of news in America that I read the 
first two sections and saw only one truly British news article!

As we travel in Europe the events in the States is before us always.
Throughout our trip we have been  reminded of the love and support of our 
friends elsewhere in the world.  At the beaches of Normandy our Stars and 
Stripes were joined at half mast with the flags of our allies.  The French 
Tricolor was lowered over Versailles.  The Queen ordered our National 
Anthemn to be played at the changing of the guard.

Strangers come up to me on the street and offered condolences often
in expression that knows no language barrier.  A French WWII veteran
spoke with tears in his eyes.  I received a call from a mayor of a
small village I hope to visit next week offering his deepest and
heartfelt concern.

We saw many people queued at the American Embassy in London to sign a 
register of condolences and deliver flowers.  The pile of flowers was 
enormous.  The Union Jack is half mast all over the city as is every 
country's flag at their embassies.

Hotels and other businesses have extended generosity to stranded
Americans.

Though the loss of life is way too high, there has been no loss of our soul 
not just as Americans, but civilized humans.

Tomorrow we get on the Euro for a trip under the Channel and on to Paris.  
Security is very tight.  We are anxious to get home.

May God bless and comfort and I look forward to being back home in America 
later in the week.

Ben Yale