Goodbye to Italia

What Matters?

Well everything really. But when it comes down to it, when it’s those dark hours before dawn and suddenly, bouncing around in your head like popcorn in a pot, life’s busy thoughts come tumbling in and you cannot get back to sleep … what really matters? Only positive energy can counter those worrisome gnats. Deep breathing and mindfulness of what we must be grateful for: a close companion (partner, family member or friend) who has our back even if they can get snippy sometimes; a furry friend who depends on us and welcomes us home; or even just that stranger who showed some respect instead of, the all too often, aloof or expectant stare as we mingle with the population. During World War II, the return to normality was sought for and more importantly, finding even just fresh food was welcome. My mother always stressed the essentials in life as we were growing up: and no wonder, with all the hardships she had to go through in Northern Italy during those devastating times.