If I lived in Italy,
I would wake up every morning
In love.
In love with how the sea-salted scent
Of the ocean nearby
Crawls up my nose.
Motivating me to rise
From this picture-perfect place,
I would decide to go on a walk
And listen to some birds talk.
No need for a tour guide
Because I’m just enjoying the ride.
Before I knew it, I was sold.
Sold on a place
My grandparents used to call
Their home,
And where my great grandparents still lie
With their bodies beneath my feet
And their spirits above my shoulders.
They are my real tour guides.
East, West, North, or South
Whichever direction I walk
It wouldn’t matter.
Because I know I am where
I’m supposed to be
In a city just north of Sicily.
My family built this town
from the ground up,
And I get to enjoy the view
With some espresso in my cup.
The struggle, sweat, and pride
My family invested in this town
Runs deep through my veins
And warms my heart.
BEEP BEEP BEEP
Suddenly I hear
An unfortunate reality
Ringing in my ear.
Free falling
Into a black hole of actuality,
I become a derailed train
Lost with no direction,
Incapable of obtaining the origin
Of such perfection
Soon leaving me broken hearted
I think I’m lost, but then I realize,
I’m right back where I started.
4,325 miles away.