Zürich.

Not such an early start for me today… a little more tired than expected and sleeping in a new environment is not always “smooth sailing”.  Took the tram into Zürich city center and just started exploring, seeing where I was going to end up.

There is a little change in building styles and scenery from the French Alps, but it is not that big to write home to about. (but I am writing anyway)  The old town is filled with little shops, art galleries, bookshops, stationery stores and what, not, if, else.  There is a majestic and old vibe to this place and you get reminded of it every time the church/cathedral bells ring.  I love the small streets surrounded by multistorey buildings with balcony flower beds.

Great weather today and I just got lost, checking into every little place I strolled past.  Even popped into a couple of churches / cathedrals to admire the architecture, stained windows and everything old.  After finding a very late lunch, I ended up in a park between two rivers and just enjoyed being present.  Also made some arrangements for Belgium and started planning on SA bits too.  The school reunion instant messaging group is also getting busy and I try to help where I can.  Found a school blazer to wear to the event, since they want to take school photo’s.  Back to Zürich and it is beautiful here too, just a little busy for my liking.

Then… I believe I try to be a good person, but how do you know the difference between a person truly in need and a conman after your money?  I mean, sure, I like to give, and help… but if the person is better dressed than me, with a newer model phone, and asks me for money to buy a bus ticket to another country he cannot describe in the park… I am respectfully reluctant to “help”.  It makes me feel very conflicted… giving, or being taken advantage of… how do I know?  I think if most people saw the two of us sitting on the bench, being given a choice, they would have said the I am perhaps the “homeless” one of the two.  Ugh.  This is going to bug me now. I want to do good, be positive and have an uplifting effect on my surroundings and the universe… hmmm.

One thing I like about this place, and maybe it is a Swiss thing, but you can find a public water fountain almost around every corner.  Everyone I encountered looks different, but they all have (cool) fresh water you can drink from.  It is the coolest thing, and I love it.  What I don’t like… this is a “real” city and I must also say, this city is too busy… so much noise, and traffic and people and smokers.  Don’t get me wrong, I still feel very privileged to be here in the land of time, watches, knives and chocolate, but tomorrow I am going somewhere more quiet.