Our first night in Rome, my husband and I walked about 1 1/2 hours looking for Taverna Trilussa, the restaurant for which we had reservations. When we finally made it, I had a blister the size of a Kennedy half dollar. For me, though, it’s fashion over comfort. The dinner was amazing, but we took a cab back to the hotel.
The next day, as we toured the Colosseum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, etc., I was forced to think about my feet and my shoes. I also thought about the life of the ancients. What was it like for them? It was a much simpler existence. Walking was the primary mode of transportation. The roads were not nicely paved, so their shoes must have been simple sandals that were flexible, unlike my stilettos from the night before. Food was simple…all clean eating: Olives, fruit, vegetables, olive oil, simple breads, etc. They had conversations, talking in the Forum. They met their friends and relatives to tell them any news, no phones, texting or internet.
The other idea that has stuck with me in this journey is the benefits of travel. Matthew Kelly, in his book “The Rhythm of Life,” talks about, and I am paraphrasing, how money spent on travel is money well spent. When we journey to other countries, or even different parts of our own country, we enter into solidarity with the native people. This in itself encourages the breakdown of racial barriers and prejudices. So in essence, when we visit another country, we put the shoe on the other foot. We experience their lives, what it’s like for them everyday.
So put the shoe on the other foot…get out of your comfort zone. Visit new places, meet the people and experience new cultures. I am getting on a plane to visit my family’s homeland, Sicily. I will keep you posted.
Tell me what’s going on with you. I want to hear from you!
Wishing you love, balance and peace!
Amore & Baci (Love & Kisses).
Just Steph
