Remembering Rome

Being in Italy opened my eyes to many things that I had not seen before.

Revelation traveled from my mind to my heart and I began to see and understand this world a little more.

As we traveled and toured the ancient ruins, great men and women - warriors and gods are remembered.

The true sacrifice of these world changers causes a certain respect to be rendered.

From Pompeii to Venice, Florence to Rome,

The little lessons that life hands you are made known

Like sharing and caring for your fellow peers

And the hugging and praying for each other with tears.

The Italians love life and do not live to work.

Little shops here and there, and Sundays off to rest or go to church;

We became as they are,

Adopting Orvieto as our new home - washing clothes, grocery shopping and having cappuccino at the little bars.

From Naples to Tarquinia, Montecassino to Siena,

From Assisi to Paestum, Tivoli and Ravenna,

We learned another way to live another way to love and another way to be free.

I learned the norms in art

Like Mary Magdalene always has on red and St. Peter has the key,

Poetry by Shelly, the Egyptians, and selections from Homer.

We were becoming the world and history traveler - a true Romer,

Giving advice, helping with projects, homework, and

Learning to speak in front of each other; now we are one big family - sisters and brothers.

The emphasis on family was greatly shown and absorbed

And now I try to spend time with my family more.

I try to appreciate the little things in life that are so dear

And I try not to forget the important things that are so near.

From Civita to Fiesole, Arezzo to Capri,

Remembering sunny days and good times with friends on the beach

Churches and theaters everywhere - Roman and Greek -

Crazy drivers and fear of crossing the street.

What I learned and what I saw are to never be forgotten.

Such has expanded my horizons and sharpened my sight.

Because of the Italians' love for living

I appreciate their Quality of Life.