My patrius Philippines is constantly in my prayers. I feel that we are entering a new Age of Aquarius and must go beyond logic into a more transcendental consciousness. And so I pray, every time I enter a new church, for our country. Actually, I have three wishes to make for each entry on my pilgrimage to new churches. It’s my way to HIM.
First on my list is my family, of course, that they be spared from this pandemic that flew in from China almost two years ago. How it has changed the world. It has also changed us. Our new normal was unheard of a decade ago, unless we include science fiction movies and books that predict a more robotic lifestyle.
Perhaps you can’t relate to how carefree and happy I am to be in Paris, a most fitting example of a gateway to the future. Just think of “2001 Space Odyssey” turning French fashion forward with Pierre Cardin and André Courrèges who made their catwalk models walk with face shields and full jumpsuits that would look banal in the ER of your nearest hospital. Well, I’m in jeans and a doudoune jacket that resembles a spacewalk attire sans lifeline. Yes, Dahlinks, it’s that kind of edgy.
Champagne heir Charles-Eifflam Heidsieck who’s a theatrical socialite in the French capital invited my groupie for a menu française classique which he entitled “Mer de Chine” or China Sea. Oh my, but our host is quite adept in stirring up a social storm of controversy reaching to high heaven. He does come from the HVRF- Highly Visible Riche Familles de France. Old old rich, may I add!
The dinner was held in the flat Charles shares with equally old riche Stephane Birmant who graciously served the overflow of super delish food worthy of a banquet. The tables were tastefully laid out for social distancing and each had a little clique of new acquaintances ensuring the success of the party of 14.
A lineup of Asian glamour personalities dotted each corner of the typically bohemian Paris flat. A fireplace was crackling with wood gathered from some private terrain. An abundance of delectable food from crispy and plump soybean sprouts chicken salad with monkey’s ears mushroom, my fav avocado infused lamb’s lettuce to two kinds of cold meat roast, chilled Atlantic deep sea shrimps in fresh chilis that was served like a bomb. Ceviche was done by constant guest Tangiers-based Moroccan diva Meftaha. Dessert was grapefruit salad doused with kirsch and topped with a melange of berries and a raspberry tarte I brought from my neighborhood bakery.
All of these joy and sharing started when I found this Carmelite church next door on the way to the party. Then I did my prayers and voila! God answers immediately.
MY PRAYER. Glory be to the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit.*
