AND SO, THE LION ROARED

For the first time, yes, I have left a big chunk of my heart in Leon, Spain. I say and own the words I write because it is the plain truth. Never have I felt such a feeling of sadness at the coming back to Madrid and leaving that extraordinarily unique place behind. I was amazed at the locals who are so kind and talkative, their energy spurt out everywhere like fountains of rainbows and good humor. People from Leon will embrace you as if you were their own. They will strike up a conversation as if you had known them all your life, and the genuine care and respect in their words are heartwarming. They also have this wonderful sing-sung accent that is captivating because it sounds beautiful. They surpass frivolities and instead, they enjoy life, and the simplicity they carry themselves with is admirable. This is because they prioritize simple pleasures like having a cup of coffee with a dear friend or going for a walk in a park surrounded by fountains and trees, over acquiring up-market cars or jewelry. They do appreciate socializing, enjoying a beautiful sunny day, and they do not rush. Why rush, after all? Today we know we are here, and about tomorrow, we are clueless.

Leon has its own identity and personality that cannot be duplicated. Some may try, but it will be just a copy. Leon is proud to show off its prime gothic cathedral of almost a milenia, with its intricate facades and impressive stained-glass, its Roman walls which were practically the foundation of the city itself, El Parador de San Marcos which showcases the spanish renaissance architecture which served as a pilgrim's hospital. And let's not forget about Casa de Botines" by Gaudi. This place is just revolutionary in its own right and merges itself with the medieval touch of the city.

Of course there is a whole lot more to say about Leon, but I believe it is the kind of place you have to admire with all your senses, heart and soul, and it will devour you with its charm and magic. I fell in love with this place, and believe me, I have been to most places in Europe, but it is this one, this Lion that roared within me which captivated me.

I have been blessed for it is Him who has permitted me to experience this marvel with a wonderful friend, who slowly but surely is becoming a pilar, a foundation, and it is because of her as well that I could see this phenomenal place. We got embriagated by Leon, its roar and its purr and we just let ourselves go...

I will go again one day, and I will witness its beauty and will fall in love with it again and again. I will.

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