Gondolas, Gifts and Gratitude
“I just can’t believe I’m actually here.” Strolling the ancient streets of Rome and inhaling the breathtaking beauty of Capri, my 100% Italian husband, Dale, was beside himself. A dream, nearly fifty years in the making, became a reality: Dale and I finally toured Italy.
As our unforgettable trip came to an end, he expressed his gratitude with one simple phrase: “My bucket list is complete.”
I’m sure God has many more adventures ahead for the both of us, but this was a trip we will never forget. It was particularly special considering it was given to us by our church congregation as a gift for 20 years of ministry.
A gift. That one word permeated the entire experience. Italy itself is a gift of the most beautiful art, stunning architecture, and prolific history one could possibly imagine. Each destination beckons you to savor her food and embrace her distinctive culture.
Rome overwhelms the senses emotionally, physically, mentally, and spiritually. The Coliseum, the Forum, the Trevia Fountain, Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel, the bustling streets that remind you of New York City…Rome is almost more than you can take in. Our experienced guides in the Vatican City and ancient Rome gave us the invaluable gift of their knowledge and insight, making the most of every moment.
Sorrento offers the gift of soaring views of the Mediterranean Sea and the most stunning hand-carved inlaid wood you’ve ever laid eyes on.
Capri is home to the gift of tranquil respite carved into cliffs overlooking the Sea.
Florence bequeaths the gift of centuries of magnificent artists, quaint cobblestone streets, homemade pistachio, and the best leather in the world.
Venice. Venice is truly one of the most captivating places I've ever visited and given me the gift of my most memorable moment. One simply cannot go to Venice without riding the “streets” of her city in a gondola. Precariously perched on a loose wooden chair, I swiveled backward to capture a video of the Italian singer and accordion players in the gondola next to us. Seconds later, I found myself toppled over and face down in the thin, wooden boat, hovering mere inches above the frigid waters. A few bruises and belly-laughs later, I was grateful the boat didn’t tip, landing us all in the water. I still chuckle thinking about the musicians who witnessed my debacle, yet never missed a beat.
Italy wasn’t the only gift. The 25 people on our week-long bus tour gifted their unique personalities and abilities.
Jerry, the life of the party who made everyone laugh, and his wife, Denise who made everyone feel significant.
Gloria, married nearly 60 years, who noticed small kindnesses and made me feel special by telling my husband he should marry me again.
Gail, the avid photographer who made me feel cared for and captured priceless moments.
And me? I hope I gave the gift of joy through music.
After dinner one night in Rome, I peeled back the cover of the piano in the hotel lobby and sat to play just for a minute. Two hours later, surrounded by the folks on our bus, I finished playing requests from nearly every decade – Billy Joel, Neil Diamond, Frank Sinatra, The Beatles, and even Lionel Ritchie. It was a remarkable night, one where people from different states, backgrounds, religious affiliations, and political persuasion just sat together and enjoyed the gift of music.
This piano thing is my thing. I’ve been given the gift of playing the piano in more than sixteen countries. When we said our final goodbyes to Italy, we flew back through Paris. We spent a day and evening touring the Eiffel Tower, enjoying an intimate dinner, and yes, once again, playing the piano. When I finished “Claire de Lune” by French composer Claude Debussy, unexpected applause filled the air from the guests having dinner in the hotel lobby. Their gratitude caught me off guard.
“Hmmm.” I said to Dale as we walked toward the elevators. "I gave them a gift."
What’s your thing? Perhaps you possess the gift of humor…encouragement…compassion…generosity…a listening ear…music that bridges divides and brings people together
Gifts don’t have to come in a box. They don’t even have to cost you a dime. Let’s resolve to make the world a better place by offering gifts that leave a lasting impact. Oh - and be careful on the gondolas in Venice.
Make Your Life Matter No Matter What
With Love,
Angela
