Small Images Make a Large Impact by deecat
We love to roam the streets, the main ones and the not-so-famous ones. We do get lost quite often, but all you have to do is ask. Italians are so accommodating and helpful.In order to see the "flavor" of the city, stroll the streets and be aware of the small, yet remarkable, scenes.
Yes, do all the tourist activities, but make time for wandering.
Some of our best "moments" happened when we least expected it.
As we were walking to find a hotel in Rome for when Allan's sister came to see us in Gaeta for a week, and we had plans to bring her to see Rome), we really were not paying much attention to our surroundings. Suddenly, an old Italian man with a cane was trying to help a crying child. Of course, we stopped to see if we could assist. The child was lost, and she was English.
Even though the Italian man could speak no English, his gentle hand on her back, his warm smile, and his reassuring voice all helped to calm the hysterical youngster. In time, between him hailing a policewoman and us speaking to her in English, all ended well.
Two very greatful parents thanked us profusely and nodded to the old gentleman. He waved goodby, and that ever-present smile lit up his wonderful, wrinkled face. I tell you, that's one memory emblazoned forever in my mind.
Another time, a street vendor roasting and selling chestnuts told us in his broken English, "You must be American. You are so friendly!"
Now, we did not purchase the chestnuts so he was not attempting to use flattery. Those few words of his made us feel special, and they forever erased that Ugly American Stereotype that we've always fought so hard to dispel.
It's this side of Rome that I cherish; I invite you to try to discover it too.Once we left Rome, I missed the historical flavor, the vibrant activity, and the elegant fashions unique to Rome. But, most of all, I missed the people.
Yes, Rome is an ancient yet modern city...one for All the Ages.