I've never been one to blog, although I love processing my thoughts through writing in my personal journal..or "diary", if you must call it. The thought of sharing my writing and thoughts with people frightens me. But I'm going to try anyways.
I have been anticipating my trip to Italy for several months now. The countdown has dwindled to a mere 2 weeks... that is, in 2 weeks I will be back in my favorite place in the world, recovered from jet lag, and enjoying the everyday pleasures that come with the Italian lifestyle. Such pleasures include a slow walking pace, beautiful artwork everywhere, timeless architecture, tomatoes, mozzarella, amazing fermented grapes (aka wine), genuine smiles, and people...people who are foreigners to our American fast-paced, workaholic, instant feedback-craving lifestyle.
I look forward to saying "ciao for now" to my smart phone. Because after all..... when in Rome.. when in Rome, you do not need need a cellphone for entertainment. I will be too busy..doing nothing.
My expectations for my trip are mainly intrinsic rather than extrinsic. The only tangible expectation I have is that I will most likely put on 5-10 pounds (which I will gracefully accept). I think that while I am in Italy for the month of August, I will be renewed in many ways. Last time I had the pleasure of being in Italy for an extended period of time, I remember making a promise to myself to ALWAYS prioritize family and friends (the GOOD stuff) over work and other taxing responsibilities. I had promised not to let work stress me out, and to maintain an attitude of appreciating life each day. While I can say that I have tried my hardest to change my "Americana Stress" to an "Italian 'La Vita e Bella' mindset" in the States, I certainly have not succeeded. In fact, I believe it is merely impossible to do. However, I am determined to try.
The famous Ghandi quote resonates strongly as I think of this predicament...
“Your beliefs become your thoughts,
Your thoughts become your words,
Your words become your actions,
Your actions become your habits,
Your habits become your values,
Your values become your destiny.”- Ghandi
My hope is that once again, through the process of traveling, I will have the great pleasure of experiencing my beliefs, thoughts, words, actions, habits, and values changing. I cannot say what impact my travels will have on me yet, but I do know that they will mold me into a new person.
So...Italy, I will be reunited with you again in less than 2 weeks.
Ora è il Momento ...Let the adventure begin..
