The trip turned out to be a very fortunate one, considering it lined up with the once in a year festival Osnabruck holds called My Week. The festival was full of great food, beer, and offbeat American cover bands. The first thing you notice there is that almost everyone, of all ages, shapes, and sizes has a beer in hand. This sight is completely new to Americans, who, with their higher legal drinking age, have a relationship with spirits and beers that is considerably unhealthier in comparison. Like Dr. Kleine stated in class, “Americans drink to oblivion.” From my experiences and observations in high school and a year in college, I can completely agree with this statement. Following his revealing words, Dr. Kleine expressed the European attitude towards alcohol: “Americans drink to gain a higher, new perspective.” These words stagnated in my mind from that class on only to be resurfaced once I visited the festival. I found confirming examples in the incredible conversation exchanged between locals as well as the general atmosphere surrounding the booths and stands. For the Europeans, there was no sorrow hidden by their buzzed smile. Rather, they were embracing the moment due in part to their beverage. Although the topic of alcohol is still one of conflicting debate, the Europeans appear to be heading in the appropriate direction.

            The excursions to Cologne also left lasting impacts. The monolithic structure of the Cologne cathedral will only be limited harshly if described solely by words. The feeling one has when they enter the cathedral is simply and utterly indescribable. I believe the word awe was invented for solely this moment. As the feelings dissolve and the mind resumes, I begin to think how much the world has changed. Buildings of this style are both built to display signs of prosperity, power, and affluence. However, in previous centuries the monumental buildings were built in the name of God. Today, the gargantuan structures are built in the name of commercial business. The same reason of opulent display has been the basis for these architectural marvels, however the model implemented has changed considerably.