Well
everyone, I am here in Rome and honestly I never thought for a second I would
be in Rome, let alone studying abroad for two months in this beautiful Country.
I have often heard the phrase “All roads lead to Rome”, even Barzini mentions
it in his book The Italians. Being
here now actually makes me believe that all roads really do lead to Rome. The
past few years of my life have been a time of uncertainty and a journey to find
myself; I am excited to continue my journey in Rome.
I never had any reason for coming to
Rome when I finally decided to; I just thought that it seemed like a fun
adventure, something different to do. In The
Italians, Barzini talks about the tourists that come to Rome driven by some
unknown urge. I’d say that this definition of a tourist describes me perfectly.
The first week here has already been quite an adventure and I have loved every
second of it, from the best to the worst.
The beauty of Rome and Castel
Gandolfo intrigue my heart and mind, just the simple view of the country side outside
of my room makes my heart flutter, and the huge magnificent Coliseum boggles my
mind. So much history is in this great city and my mind can’t help but wonder
what Rome really looked like in its prime. On our tours we see the ruins of the
city, and even they amaze me because even though they are ruins they radiate
such beauty. In Smiles, Masson talks
about the Forum and how it seems like an empty space, but if we use our
imagination we can comprehend what an important space the Forum actually was.
Week one is coming to a close and I know
that week two will bring even more beauty and adventure. I can’t say yet what I
am hoping to get from this trip, all I know is that I plan to make the best of
it. I can already tell that the group I came with will become like family
because they already feel like my family. I do not regret for one second being
here, it was a wonderful decision and I know I will learn so much from my experiences.
Until next time Buona Sera!
The beauty of Rome is something that I can't quite get used to either. Its like no matter what you look at whether the ruins of the Forum or an apartment building or a store, everything seems so rich with culture. I think that might be the biggest thing I will miss when we return to the states.
ReplyDeleteThe coliseum was definitely mind boggling, you see these famous structures in movies and hear about them in a history lesson but seeing them up close with your own eyes is something that can't compare!
ReplyDeleteDanielle, I am very much enjoying sharing this journey with you and being so close to you and being your roommate is helping make this journey great for me!! I agree with what you said about the beauty of the country completely. Rome has definitely stolen my heart as well. :)
ReplyDeleteDanielle,
ReplyDeleteGreat journal. Nice use of the texts. I am looking forward to reading more. Keep up the great work