【英文版】
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After visiting the historic sites related to the life and death of Jean d’Arc (Joan of Arc in English), I think that her story is even more important for us today than it has ever been since her time in Rouen, France.
Jean d’Arc was a peasant girl living in medieval France. She contended that God had chosen her to lead France to victory in its long war with England. After seeing the prince crowned King Charles VII, Joan was captured by Anglo-Burgundian forces. She was tried for witchcraft and heresy, and burnt at the stake in 1431, at the age of 19.
Many believe she stands for truth because she spoke the truth whether the people liked what she said or not, she was always truthful. I admired her tremendous bravery because she had the courage of her convictions and was willing to stand by them no matter what it would cost her, even her life.
She was loyal to King Charles even though he later abandoned her to the enemy. She was faithful to Holy Mother Church even though some of its leaders betrayed her. She went so far as to forgive these people just before she was burnt to death.
By the time she was officially canonized in 1920, the Maid of Orleans had long been considered one of history’s greatest saints, and an enduring symbol of French unity.
Jean d’Arc is not only a symbol of freedom; she is also a symbol of love. Love was the underlying message throughout her short life. It shines through her selflessness. She showed her love for the poor and needy. She was never angry to those people who opposed her. She showed her passionate love for the Church and the Sacraments.
Most importantly, she was faithful to God and the mission that He gave her. She did this by “never taking her hand from the plow.” She strove to the utmost of her ability to serve Him all the days of her life, even during her oppressive imprisonment, until the day of her death.
We can all learn something from Jean d’Arc’s experience and find a courageous resolve in her example. I loved the huge colorful stained glass windows in the Church of St. Jean d’Arc. They brought in brilliantly exquisite sunrays exemplifying the blessings for Rouen in France.
With the fascinating history of the city, Rouen holds endless possibilities for exploring. I discovered many historic sights throughout the town. I was tempted to spend my whole vacation around the burnt site of Jean d’Arc soaking up the heroine’s glorious deeds, but Rouen has much more to offer.
The City of Rouen showed me a beautiful tapestry composed of all of the choices it has made. The people I met in Rouen expressed hope and optimism for the future of the city. As the night fell, I saw a silver moon in an indigo sky. I could still hear that omnipresent sound of dynamic energy during the day. The hum of the visitors around the globe was gradually drowned out by the amazing songs of inspiration.
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