Italy and this "Parisian"

I have not dropped off the face of the earth; I have been in Florence. Never before have I been surrounded by such an intense expression of art and architecture as I have been while passing through the streets of Florence.That is saying something I think, considering that I live in Paris - arguably the most beautiful city in the world. Florence bombards the surging masses snaking through its narrow streets and breath-taking squares with over the top magnificence.

Since moving to Paris I have made every effort to live as a local, always, always speaking French as I go about the daily business of living. In Florence I had to forgo these deeply ingrained habits and just be a tourist. The city practically demands it. Everywhere there are lines to queue. Americans crawl the streets, cameras and tour books a-ready, gaggles of squealing students move in amoeba like pods through the squares, the sidewalks feel like one big museum tour. BUT, most all the servers passing us our pasta, making our cappuccinos, pouring our wine spoke Italian, shocking I know. I got along better speaking French to the barristas rather than English. Maybe this is the only way that the Florentines can preserve something of themselves in the face of what looks like constant alien invasions.

As gorgeous as Florence is, I happily returned to Paris. I can breathe in Paris and live in Paris and be, while not a true Parisian, at least an inhabitant. Paris is big enough for everyone, the tourists and the rest of us. And we don't have to see each other every day.

It used to be that I would visit an intriguing place, such as Florence, and begin immediately imaging living there. Projecting all sorts of wonderful images of life in such a place onto my personal world. Not anymore. I can enjoy a glimpse of another beautiful world, and happily settle back into mine. It is obvious that I got myself to the place and the city in which I belong. What a gift! I am aware of this privilege and I recommend putting yourself on the sometimes treacherous path to get "there". Because once you are "there", the rest becomes obvious.

Comments

[kim]

M, as I read your blog I am struck by how your outward beauty is only exceeded by your inward beauty. carpe diem.