By Braeden Ozechowski – Contributor 

When I was in high school, my literature class studied Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. As part of this study, we discussed the parallels of Caravaggio’s painting Calling of Saint Matthew in relation to the story. I remember studying the expressions within the painting as its grainy image was projected onto the board. However, I struggled to grasp the meaning of the work and how it related to my studies. 

A couple months later, I found myself strolling through the streets of Rome with my father, searching for what would have been pizza number 12 of the trip, when we stumbled upon the immaculately adorned doors of San Luigi dei Francesi.

My father, overcome with curiosity, pulled me out of my mozzarella-crazed trance and through the doors of the church. As my father  studied every plaque he could find to read, an extended index finger caught my eye. After popping a euro into a donation bin in the corner, a light flipped on and illuminated Carrivagio’s Calling of Saint. Michael. My dad and I stood in surprise at what we had discovered. “Hey dad, isn’t that the painting from your English class?” It certainly was. 

He and I stood a long time gazing upon what seemed like miles of canvas, discussing what it meant and how it connected to themes we studied in class. After an evening of English nerd talk, not only had I discovered the answers to the questions I had in class, but I’d also discovered a love for the arts that I had no idea existed within me, a love of arts that I pursue to this day because of it. 

Rugby is a passion of mine. This past winter I uncovered entirely new experiences within the sport I love while in Lyon, France. Sporting events in Canada tend to follow a common pattern – a large stadium outside of the city, a huge parking lot, a concourse inside the stadium selling $13 dollar beers and junk food. Watching rugby in Lyon immerses you into a group of dedicated and passionate fans. There is a special metro line that runs exclusively on game days directly to the Stade de Gerland. Once past the gate, fans are able to wander the large outdoor park with numerous tents, shops and activities for fans to take part in. 

Players and members of the club can also be found milling around interacting with fans. Before kickoff, you’ll find people settling in with their pretzels, crepes and wine. You may even see mothers sharing pitchers with their kids.

Once the game begins, everyone is engaged. From the young fans shouting “Allez le Lou!” to the old men singing songs arm in arm, everyone is there for their team and the people standing beside them.

After the conclusion of the match, instead of filing out the door, fans stay and socialize at concessions and areas within the park that remain open for this reason. Leaving Lyon, I had a whole new idea of how sporting events can be enjoyed. As a sports studies student, I’m ecstatic to bring this philosophy into my work and studies. 

A vacation may leave you rested and rejuvenated, but the best form of travel should keep you busy and moving, spending every last bit of each day’s time and energy. The true purpose of travel is to enrich one’s understanding and providing new perspectives to shape education, career and outlook.

Photo courtesy of Braeden Ozechowski