It is finally the weekend here in Florence! Luckily we do not have classes for two days so we are able to travel a little and explore some more of beautiful Italy!
Today (Saturday) I think I am just going to relax around the city and really explore some more of historic Florence. Tomorrow, however, I am taking a day trip with some friends to the little town of Assisi just south-east of Florence. We are meeting one of our professors there.
Other than that, I have just been studying and enjoying my time in Italy. It truly is a great country--incredibly different than the United States and any other European country that I have visisted for that matter. Things are slower here, which actually tends to bother me a little. There is a common stereotype of the United States (which incidentally turns out to be true) that we are always on the move. Going from that extreme enviornment to this extreme environment it really takes some adjusting.
Traveling to other countries, above all else, really puts ones priority's in place. However much I may get down on the U.S. for political mishaps, social downfalls, or anything else I could not imagine living permanently in any other country. Overall I think the United States has something other countries don't have---a general sense of optimism and openness. I think it was Bill Clinton who said something along the lines of, ''There is nothing wrong with American that cannot be cured by what is right with America." I agree, and find that I get quite defensive when I am abroad and the topic of American apathy, etc. is mentioned. While I am not pleased with my government, I still stand by the institution and stand by the fact that I have the right to actively participate in the change of my government. I am proud to be an American.
Ok. I got a little philosophical on y'all right there. Sorry about that. Let me know what you think.
I love you all, and hope that all is well.
Brief history lesson: The Ponti Vecchio, Florence's oldest bridge is currently a hotbed for jewelry and gold sales. In the past, it was used as a secret escape passage for the Medici family to get out of Florence in times of battle. Interesting story, though. When Hitler invaded Florence during WWII, he ordered that the majority of the bridges connecting the two sides of Florence be completely destroyed. However, he made a special order to his troops and told them NOT to destroy the Ponti Vecchio because of its immense amount of history. Hitler wanted to preserve it! I find it interesting that such a hate-filled man could have a minute amount of compassion for a historically important bridge.
No comments:
Post a Comment