A Taste of Heaven in Greece
Justin Andries
It’s a different type of serenity when you sit on top of a mountain surrounded by lush greenery, looking down at an ocean so blue that you’re convinced it’s fake and just close enough to the sun where you could embrace her. If there was one place where I could spend the rest of my life, it would be Greece. If I’m being honest, I had a different picture of what Greece would look like in my mind versus what I’ve experienced. I was ready to see the sandy beaches and white homes with cute little round windows. I was ready to be blinded by the sun and excited to put away my heavy winter coat for a few days. I was prepared to be a tourist. Instead, I was fed the heart of this country on a gold platter and watched it beat with life every day. The character of Athens fed my soul, and my stomach, as food was the best means of communication with the locals because of the language barrier. The smell of fresh wood burning danced through the organized chaos of tiny, compact roads filled with markets and street vendors and people playing instruments. I’m not sure if it was the frigid air or the view of the Acropolis every day (especially at night) but my breath was taken away.
I was envious of the locals who were able to look outside their window and see the Acropolis – a piece of history that I could only read about until this weekend. Visiting The Acropolis, as well as other historic sites like the Theatre of Dyonisus, Temple of Poseidon, and the Athens Memorial in Phaleron War Cemetery felt like I was reliving their history. I could almost feel the peaceful souls of those who fought in the war after seeing their lives honored in such a respectful and beautiful way. The aged tombstones etched with quotes like “He gave the greatest gift of all, his unfinished life,” or “God knows best, and we must submit” depicted just how important each life was to this country, no matter the background. Seeing historical sites in person rather than in textbooks helps you remember the past much differently. It feels more authentic, raw.
God leaves me speechless each time I explore a different part of the world he’s created. This program constantly reminds me of just how big this world is, and how little my problems are. Cities such as Athens force me to slow down and count the clouds as I watch the sea and sky become one. I feel my worries evaporate as I get just another taste of heaven.
Until we meet again,
Justin Andries
