Saturday, September 6, 2014
Venice ~ The City of Love
My favorite Venice story took place before we ever set foot in this magical city on the water. It happened, actually, before we ever left home. While sitting in the LA airport, we met an older gentlemen who was also traveling to Italy. There were a couple of college-age girls hanging out in our area, too. (Remember, you are at the airport minimum 2 hrs early for an International flight, so there is plenty of time to get acquainted, should you choose to do so.) There was something special about this gentleman, and we struck up a conversation which included the college girls, about why were going to Italy, what our travel plans included, etc.
He shared with us that his journey was going to be bitter-sweet, as he was traveling back, after his wife had lost a long, harsh battle with cancer, to spread her ashes in all the places they loved in Italy through the years.
And he shared this bit of wisdom with us, and I quote, "Venice is the most beautiful city in the world, and all emotions are amplified here as the water receives and then reflects them back to you."
I believed him. And our time in Venice was so incredibly romantic, as the water reflected our emotions back to us. And every so often, just a little sad, as I remembered this gentle soul delivering his beloveds last wishes, re-living their precious memories of a lifetime of love, and (I'm sure) shedding a few tears for her. As did I.
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What a romantic story this is and such a unique opportunity you embraced chatting with him prior to departure! I now can't wait to visit Venice!
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful tribute to his wife. He probably has no idea how his story shaped your experience. I would love to travel the world one day, but if that never happens, it is nice to get a glimpse through the eyes of someone who truly appreciates the finest things in life. Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Dawn. We have met some wonderful people on our journeys. The best part of our trip is not what we see, but who we get to know. I thought it was very special that he shared something so personal with us, as fellow travelers.
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