Christmas lights sparkling outside our window in Paris. This year in many cities around France, Christmas decorations are at a minimum due to the threat of electricity shortage and to protect our planet from overconsumption of disposable products. Usually, the Christmas lights extend all along our street and stay lit throughout the evening, but this year, the Christmad lights are only at the base of our apartment, on the corner, and stay lit for a few hours.
With that said, major brands such as Louis Vuitton, Prada, Chanel, Christian Dior…, Their Christmas decorations are massive and stunning, as always. Nevertheless beautiful as ever they are disappointingly wasteful.
Writing this reminds me of something Chelsea told me, “…Here I am not using straws, reusing my bags, limiting buying products that are in plastic, looking at secondhand before buying clothing… meanwhile, some celebrities are wondering what color of private jet they should fly?”
We can only control our actions and hope they will bring a better outcome for everyone. Mayors and government officials in France are heeding to the call of mindfulness towards reusable products.
So there are fewer Christmas decorations this year, reminding me to be careful of what I use and have the advantages to use. Also, to appreciate the fewer decorations in town and hope they will be reused instead of discarded.
I must admit I love the festive atmosphere that decorations bring, Though, I also understand the need for redirection, Change, opens the doors to new ideas, new ways, and mindful appreciation. Instead of disposable, the call for reusable and natural decor is welcomed.
Another significant change in France is that some name brand shops will take back clothes from their brand and resell them as vintage. The major department stores have complete sections of secondhand clothing, it is a very welcome change. Secondhand stores for clothing are popping up especially in Paris.
Maybe, Martin will take a peek? Wink!
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