Sometimes things don’t quite turn out as we plan. Upon arriving in Naples, we discovered that our luggage was missing—unfortunately it was my bag. In fact, we were told that my carefully packed suitcase was not in Italy or Paris but had made a scenic trip all the way to Portugal. After being stressed out for a few significant minutes we filled out the proper paperwork and awaited delivery which eventually took place the following night at 3 am. My girls were stupendous and tackled the whole debacle for their distressed mom who was unfortunately wearing their clothes due to necessity. Sometimes in life, you just have to laugh when disappointments come your way.
Arriving in Ravello was like a dream. Walking into the medieval town square felt like I had traveled back in time when life was much simpler. Lights were strewn from the treetops of the famous umbrella pines which lined the ancient stone sqaure. The 11th century Duomo was designed between baroque and romanesque—and visitors were greeted by massive striking bronze doors from Constantinople depicting scenes from Holy Scripture (one of only three surviving sets of medieval southern Italian bronze doors by Sculptor Barisano da Trani). I knelt before the Blessed Sacrament praying for all the intentions in my heart and thought about the thousands of people who had also prayed on these ancient stones over the past one thousand years. It’s an overwhelming thought, to pray in a place where many other seekers of peace and love have prayed for guidance from above. Indeed God has been present throughout these many centuries to all who call out to Him. It was a privilege to do so in a place of such beauty and history.
During our first evening enjoying Italian wine in the square, I saw children of every age playing alongside parents who sipped drinks quite leisurely. The kids didn’t have a device in site, rather they rode scooters, kicked soccer balls and drank cokes. By the time midnight rolled around, my girls and I chuckled that these same kids were still as active on the steps of the 11th century Duomo which had captured our prayers only hours before. The atmosphere is different here—slower, not as rushed as at home. I like it and will attempt to bring back some it’s gentleness when we return.
We head to Positano for a few days of sightseeing and sunning and look forward to experiencing this new city. Bidding farewell to Ravello is bittersweet as the people, places and general ambiance have been refreshing for our tired spirits. I think the girls and I will be leaving with a sense of gratitude having gained valuable insights into the importance of living each day more purposefully and gently. Arrivederci Ravello.
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