Italy Inspires

Bella. 

This country has my heart and it is certainly not letting go. The people approach life each day as if it is a celebration. This vibrancy is seen in the clothes they wear, the foods they eat, and the way they treat those around them. Rich or poor, this trend runs deep in Italy. The people work hard and with a great sense of pride, from the construction workers to the real estate moguls. Note: they don't work so hard that they forget to enjoy the opportunities they have each day. This is something I immediately gravitate towards, as I have this same attitude. For me, waking up with a healthy mind and body with a healthy family constitutes a perfect day. This is exactly the sort of appreciation the Italians show. They do not rush, but they are not lazy (except the occasional siesta). The thought each person puts into his or her appearance is unparalleled. Fashion is not all about money and it's certainly not a competition the way it can sometimes feel in other parts of the world. For the Italians, dressing well is a form of self respect. The Milanese in particular feel it is their duty to dress in a way that presents the very best version of themselves. Clean, polished, and elegant. Women are happily trotting along the cobblestone streets in heels and almost every man is in a perfectly tailored suit carrying a fine leather briefcase. Nothing thrills me more than being out-dressed by a little old Italian woman doing something as mundane as fetching groceries. Italians put a conscious effort into everything they do, no matter how small. They bake their bread fresh and scoff at the frozen food aisles of American supermarkets. They take pride in where they come from and place significant value on tradition and family. We can all learn something from the Bella Italia way of life.