As we celebrate le Mois de la Francophonie, Alliance Française de Jackson members share why they chose French or encourage others to study the language. Today, Lori Blount shares her story.
When I was in the fourth grade, a lady came in once a week to teach us French. It was just a little enrichment class, but I was totally taken with it! I can’t tell you why, but I was fascinated. I knew I wanted to learn more. I eagerly signed up for French when I reached the 9th grade. I had the good fortune of having a young, enthusiastic teacher whose passion for the language and culture was evident. I was smitten! I practiced all my dialogues diligently and talked to myself a lot in French, trying to use all that I was learning. After graduation, I had the chance to go to France and live with a family for five weeks. The experience was one of the most cherished of my life. I have returned to France many times and am still am very close to my “French” family. Over the years my love for the people, language and culture of this beautiful country has only deepened. When I speak French I am happy. When I am in France, I feel “chez moi.”
Photos
Top: Lori at the Chateau de Langeais
Below: Lori and her French “sister” Corinne near her home in Clavans-le-Haut
