I am noticing how much I like it when cultures enjoy a relaxed and creative attitude toward themselves. I noticed it first with Jews toward their religion: Judaism belongs to Jews in a way that Christianity does not belong to Christians.

I’m seeing the same thing with the French and their historical buildings, and the Basque and their amazing food. These things matter to them and they are proud of it, but not in a pure or distanced way. They are in it, and of it, and they value it as participants and continuers, not as preservers.