Rinaldo's Cafe
Privileged
Melissa Benson Loyola University Chicago
Privileged. The word is a funny one. Yet in retropect, I believe it really does encompass the past semester of our lives. We have lived in Rome, Italy. The experience is one that not many are able to have. Our time here has been filled with many new things, some good and some bad. But looking back on this semester, preparing to say 'Ciao Roma' (pun intended), I think we all have to realize that we have been extremely fortunate and forever changed.
I have been reminiscing about my semester this past week and this is the conclusion ihave come to. First, I am so grateful to be able to see the real Europe, the real Italy. Being here, I can now distinguish between tourist and traveler. The difference is a significant one; I have come to realize that we are the latter and better for it. We see what is passed over by the tourists in a rush to visit all the famous sites. As travelers, we see the sites and so much more. I feel as though the Europe often found her is a superficial one.
I didn't come here with any expectations, other than the idea that this would be great. I think what I found was that I appreciate the pace of ife in Europe. Here, dinner is an experience rather than a way to prevent starvation. We slow down our hectic lives to sit and appreciate the company of good friends. The past three and a half months have been our chance to gain another perspective on life.
I know some of you are probably gagging at the cliches right now. Sappy, sentimental. But each and every student here can look back and remember at least one moment that brings a smile to your face. Whether you realize it or not, you have changed. We cannot see it now, in the presence of those who have been changing us. However, it will be apparent upon return to the States. Little differences. Even if the change is not profound in your life, it will still be there.
Probably the best part of the JFRC experience, for me at least, has been all the wonderful people here. Everyone brings something unique here. I think our semester has been something truly special. So, as we come to a conclusion on a chapter of life, I invite you to recollect. Take a moment and just remember something, anything, about the semester that you can dote upon fondly (I know everyone has at least one such memory...you know you want to J). Let's appreciate Rome while we are still here.
