When In Berlin...

It's already Friday? Wow. I'm honestly amazed with how quickly this week has come and gone. Last week we saw Sachsenhausen, and that took a toll on us. But this week was full of gay pride, fußball, palaces, poorly attributed museum, and the East Side Gallery. This was a much-needed, interesting week. Although there are clearly different opinions in this city, it seems that the community either looks the other way, or (more optimistically) accepts the views of others. I've learned the true meaning of "When in Berlin..." -- after the more famous "When in Rome..." it holds the same meaning.

Sunday was the LGBT festival, and that was a blast. Music, costumes, and liberal individuals made the atmosphere worth the trip. I was interested to see that not only were there people celebrating their own sexuality, but there were many people supporting the sexuality of others. Men, women, children, straight, gay, transgender -- it didn't matter. Everyone was so kind and loving and happy to celebrate (with the help of the ever-so-sponsored Beck's, I'm sure). Nonetheless, it was a breath of fresh air. Not once did I see a protester opposing the event. It goes on to support my idea that Berlin must accept "live and let live" policy. At least, I sure did.

Monday continued the hype with Germany defeating Portugal. They dominated with a final score of 4-0, and I was so excited. Normally I don't follow soccer too closely, but I'm in Europe during the World Cup for God's sake! I've always known the sport and loved it, but I never followed it as a professional sport. I am now an avid beer-drinking, brot-eating, referee-hating Germany fan. I can't wait  for the next game!

Tuesday was a wonderful adventure to Potsdam. Now, this isn't your typical "Berlin" atmosphere... but  it was probably my favorite adventure since I've been here. The gardens are immaculate, and the structures are awe-inspiring. Literally with every corner we took, there was something unexpected and beautiful. This is sort of how I feel here in Berlin... nothing is expected. There is something different around every corner, and sometimes it will take you in a different direction than before. For me, that's the most beautiful part.

Now we come to the Stasi Museum on Wednesday. This museum was the headquarters to the State Security of East Berlin following WWII. One would think this museum would be full of interesting displays, and wonderful explanations. Possibly there wasn't enough information to give out, as they were so thoroughly secret. However, the more likely cause of poor execution is the lack of funds in this wonderful city. As a result, this is the only item in the museum I found interesting enough to take a photo of:

I really love Mickey Mouse, okay?

Finally, on Thursday, a group of us went to the East Side Gallery.

This was a great experience. One of the few memories left in this city that aren't heart-wrenching. There are murals that stretch the 30 kilometers on both sides. Most of these murals attribute to the memories of those affected by the wall, but not always. It was beautiful, and the gloom day seemed to add to the dreary atmosphere. With all that said, it was still a more light-hearted experience. There must be some sort of regulation to the graffiti-art, but it seems that "anything goes" on the wall. Just as this city produces an "anything goes" atmosphere.

With all the diverse experiences I have encountered in this city, I remain attached to that phrase.

"When in Berlin..."

...and we've still got another week.