Unplanned Encounters, Unexpected Beauty: A Grace Go Encounter Reflection

By Cora Butzin

You never know exactly what adventure you will have when you sign up for a Go Encounter trip through the Institute for Global Studies at Grace College. 

From the moment you step off the plane, you are in a whole new world. No itinerary could ever prepare you for the amazing discoveries you will make.

I did not know this before I went on my Go Encounter trip to France, but the 10 days that followed yielded many unplanned encounters I will never forget.

I had planned to encounter the arts.

I had greatly anticipated going to a French bookstore and the Louvre Museum with some new friends. I had not planned just how great of an impact the French people’s love of literature and art would have on me.

There were more bookstores than I could ever explore in 10 days, as well as literature cafes where people met to read, write, and eat (something I wish was common in America). The Louvre held far more works of art than anyone could hope to behold in a few hours. It also contained statues, paintings, and artifacts that honored what humans have held dear throughout all times and cultures.

The French people’s love for creativity was evident every step of the way, and I had not expected it to strengthen my desire to advocate for it in my own country.

I had planned to encounter beauty.

I had dreamt of seeing Notre Dame and beholding the Eiffel Tower. I had not planned to have my breath taken away by both the natural and crafted beauty France held. You cannot prepare yourself for the way it feels to stand in a hushed and ancient chapel or cathedral surrounded by thousands of brightly colored glass fragments reflecting the sunlight outside. Until you go, you cannot know what it is like to see the mountains and sea God so perfectly made and witness the bright city lights of Marseille illuminating the valley.

Until I encountered these things, I do not think I had as deep an understanding of the beauty God created or of the incredible skills He gifted people with.

 I had planned to encounter people.

I was eager to learn from our tour guides and hopeful that I could learn more of the language to ask questions. I had not planned to meet such wonderful and welcoming people who shared their country and stories with me. I did not know how many beautiful cultures influenced what it meant to be French. I did not know how impactful it would be to hear one man share his love for the ocean as well as his sadness that it is so often crowded with tourists.

No amount of planning could prepare me for all the stories each person we met told us or how grateful I would be for each one.

When you sign up for your Go Encounter trip, be excited for everything your trip leaders have planned. Make your own plans; do more than just observe. Take time to learn and explore every chance you get. But remember, there will be so many amazing things you could never plan for, and that is where some of the greatest encounters lie.

Learn more about Go Encounter Grace College trips, and explore the Institute for Global Studies.

To hear another perspective from a Go Encounter to Vietnam, read Maria’s story.