Though the cultural symbol of Paris was engulfed in flames from Monday's horrific fire, Notre Dame cathedral still stands with the iconic dual bell towers intact.
Democratic 2020 presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg expressed his condolences and solidarity with Paris in the wake of the devastating conflagration.
The current mayor of South Bend, Indiana, who can speak seven languages, spoke to a reporter from a French-language station BFM TV, in French.
Just when we thought we couldn't love him more, Buttigieg impressed us with this worldly response.
Roughly translated, Mayor Pete said:
"To the people of France, I would like to say that Notre Dame Cathedral was like a gift to the human race. We share in the pain but we also thank you for this gift to civilization."
Many recognized his compassion in addressing the people of France in their native tongue.
Buttigieg's response was compared to that of Donald Trump's tweet in which he suggested Paris fire fighters should employ "flying water tankers."
It's a study of contrasts.
One user noted another leader who shares similar characteristics with Buttigieg.
Gérard Araud, the French ambassador to the U.S. thanked the South Bend mayor and congratulated him on his French.
Those who speak fluent French were impressed.
Later, Buttigieg posted a translation of what he told the French reporter and added a link to Aruad's tweet thanking him.
The French fire brigade said that experts will assess the damages to Notre Dame and "safeguard" the surviving bell towers and relics.
Emmanuel Macron vowed to rebuild the cathedral and announced he would launch an international fundraising campaign to help finance the cause.
Buttigieg is proficient in Norwegian, Spanish, Italian, Maltese, Arabic, Dari, and French. He taught himself Norwegian so he could read more about an author he admired.
The polyglot is also known as the "the millennial candidate," who joined the crowded Democratic field by kicking off his presidential campaign on Sunday.
The affable 37-year-old told the enthusiastic crowd:
"My name is Pete Buttigieg. They call me Mayor Pete. I am a proud son of South Bend, Indiana. And I am running for President of the United States."
"I recognize the audacity of doing this as a Midwestern millennial mayor. More than a little bold—at age 37—to seek the highest office in the land. ... But we live in a moment that compels us each to act."
The relative unknown from a month ago is quickly gaining in popularity, and "Boot Edge Edge" (the suggested pronunciation) has become a household name.
Pete Buttigieg, vous êtes une source d'inspiration pour nous tous. You are an inspiration to us all!
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