Traveling through Italy opened my eyes to the differences in our cultures. Given my own “baggage” of trying to do more in less time, what I noticed most was the relaxed way people went about their day. (Except when they’re driving -- then it’s like participating in the Indianapolis 500 without any rules!) I had many opportunities to learn and practice patience, and by the end of my sojourn I was moving like a snail on a hot sunny day.

Closed or Chiusa

You want to change your train ticket during the middle of the afternoon? Too bad. They’re out to lunch – literally. I admire a country full of businesses that don’t feel the pressure to accommodate every customer’s schedule. Sure, when we approached the “closed” train office in Florence, we were frustrated. Instead, we went off and had some of the best lasagna I’ve ever eaten (nothing like homemade noodles). Just think how many more families would sit down together for dinner if one of their family members wasn’t working some funky shift at Target or Wal-mart – especially on major holidays.

Ciao or Chow

When eating in a restaurant, you just about have to beg for your check. Nobody’s in a hurry to turn your table, seat more customers and make more money. Meals can linger on for hours of conversation – even at lunch where everyone seemed to sip a glass of red wine. You’ve got to love a country that couldn’t move a copy of the Atkins or South Beach Diet in any bookstore if their pasta depended on it. You don’t just have one course, but many. I’m still experiencing carb cravings (just nuked myself a Weight Watcher angel hair marinara – not the same, but it will have to do). How would your life change if you sat down over a hot meal and truly connected with another person on a regular basis?

Walk or Stroll

In the early evening the streets overflow with friends, couples, families and individuals taking a leisurely walk through the streets (no wonder they can inhale all that pasta). They are not speed walking, nor are they in a hurry to get anywhere. The goal is simply to get out and move – usually with a companion to share the incredible sights and smells. How would our neighborhoods be different if we went out after supper and walked while saying hello to others nearby? Do you think it would create a greater sense of community and joy?

Before you start calling your travel agent or visiting expedia.com, let me remind you how fortunate we are to be living in the United States. First, no matter where I traveled, I never needed more Italian than “Ciao’ (hello) and “Grazie” (thank you) in order to get around the country. We are blessed with the volume of people who speak English throughout the world making it so easy for us when we decide to travel.  Secondly, American women don’t feel the pressure or desire to wear narrow, pointy-toed high heels while strolling on old, cobblestone streets. My New Balance wide sneakers worked just fine. Whether it’s two different countries or two different people, we can certainly learn greatness from each other. Ciao!

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Articles may be reproduced with permission from Colette Carlson Communications.