France's embrace of fraternité as a core value is the foundation of so much we love about this country. It also offers some important lessons for the U.S.
So true. I became French via my mother, so no effort there on my part, but I chose to live in France for most of the reasons you chose to become French. Toulouse is also the city where I first discovered France as student in the 1970s, one of my favorite cities, still.
Super article! I wish more Americans could see it. If a person hasn't lived in another country that has had all the great benefits that come with higher taxes, they can never understand it.
I agree with everything you said. We lived in Southern Burgundy from 2000 - 2020. We sold our home and little guest house and moved back to the states. What a mistake! During this horrible time in the states, we do miss our precious village so very much. And have tried to spread the good words you said about how France works, compared to the states. We talk about this all the time in our little local France class and our American friends in it realize why we pay taxes. And appreciate the aid they give to those citizens who need it. I also agree with the word you used "selfish". We changed a lot of our views about the USA during the first year or two. Quite an education, huh?
Yes, I have the same trouble explaining the same things, particularly the tax issues. The first question American friends ask is, "Aren't the taxes really high?" And I try to say, yes they are a big higher, but what you get in return makes it more than worth it!
Thanks for sharing the experience and perspective. Great read!
Thank you for posting this article.
So true. I became French via my mother, so no effort there on my part, but I chose to live in France for most of the reasons you chose to become French. Toulouse is also the city where I first discovered France as student in the 1970s, one of my favorite cities, still.
Ah, yes! We love to Toulouse! We feel very lucky to have arrived here.
Super article! I wish more Americans could see it. If a person hasn't lived in another country that has had all the great benefits that come with higher taxes, they can never understand it.
Thanks! Yes, exactly. We feel very fortunate...
What a truly excellent explanation…
I agree with everything you said. We lived in Southern Burgundy from 2000 - 2020. We sold our home and little guest house and moved back to the states. What a mistake! During this horrible time in the states, we do miss our precious village so very much. And have tried to spread the good words you said about how France works, compared to the states. We talk about this all the time in our little local France class and our American friends in it realize why we pay taxes. And appreciate the aid they give to those citizens who need it. I also agree with the word you used "selfish". We changed a lot of our views about the USA during the first year or two. Quite an education, huh?
Yes, I have the same trouble explaining the same things, particularly the tax issues. The first question American friends ask is, "Aren't the taxes really high?" And I try to say, yes they are a big higher, but what you get in return makes it more than worth it!