Return to Roma

After being away from Rome for over a year, and constantly dreaming of returning, I expected that my arrival back in this, my other city, would be nothing less than magical and perfetto. Knowing Rome like I do, I don’t know why I would even entertain such a ludicrous thought. I mean, I know that Rome is Rome is Rome…and Rome is a difficult city. It is inherently difficult to navigate, and more often than not, things just don’t go according to plan. Rome requires that you roll with the punches, be flexible, be adaptable, just be, and not attempt to force your way on Rome. It’s a futile task; Rome always wins. That’s what I grew to love about this city in the first place; living here taught me to be all those things—flexible, adaptable, open to change. Rome taught me how to live without all my usual comforts, to have different life expectations, and to live and experience the moments as they happen—both pleasurable and painful moments, that is.

I am now recalling, with a visceral fervor, the familiar feelings of frustration and angst that I experienced upon arrival in Rome last time. It is hard to adjust to Rome, after being away for over a year. I wasn’t expecting this re-integration period, but I accept it as part of the process. And of course it goes without saying that I “love” process! I’m only here for one day for now, as I head to Milano before coming back. The real test will be spending a week here, and seeing how I like it…or don’t…