A recent summer soiree (that’s French) in one of my favorite countries left me longing for more. More art, more pastry, more sights, smells, and sounds that scream – in an elegant, understated, completely French sort of way – you are in a tres bien place. Oh, France, j’adore you.
After making a life out of small talk, authoring several books on the topic, and teaching literally thousands of individuals the tricks of the trade, I was thrilled to talk with Michael Ferrari at Esprit Riche. I found him warm, charming, and engaged. But upon further reflection, I realized that I had found all the French people I had encountered exactly the same. I couldn’t help notice that the French seem bred to make conversation. What is it that makes the French truly lean into meaningful conversations? I, of course, am not a scientist, but I think it has something to do with the wine at lunch.
I am kidding. Sort of. I do believe that the French have mastered enjoying where they are and what they are doing, instead of rushing through an errand or a lunch or a meeting only to get to the next task on that ever-growing list we all carry in our head and heart. Perhaps it is time to stop smell the Rosé, oui?
