What are my Expectations

As my trip to Italy approaches, I keep thinking about what kind of expectations I have. I have tried to live my life in the last several years (since 1994) without expecting too much out something or someone. That doesn't mean, I don't look forward to things because I do indeed. With great expectations or desire can come significant let downs.

But I must admit, I feel my "expectations" growing. Much more so than when I went to Pamplona, Spain to Run with the Bulls. I have learned much about Florence, studied her streets, read blogs about her people, and while I am ready to meet her, I wonder if I am also looking for some kind of Pilgrimage? I recently have been reading the book, "The Art of Pilgrimage", and while I think a lot of it is new age, I believe in the foundation of 'pilgrimage'. There were great ideas in this book which affirmed much of what I have already done or prepared before this trip. It seems even before reading this book, I had already been planning many of the suggestions outlined in the book; such as bringing back pieces of your travel, from leaves, rocks, and such. I had bought this little clear glass container, no more than 3" tall months ago, so I could bring back some dirt from Tuscany. I highly recommend reading the book. Allow it to change your perspectives on your everyday view of the world which surrounds you in your daily life.

So, do I 'expect' this trip to be some kind of life altering event? Yes. I am looking for inspiration for a book I am writing. Then from a personal side, inspiration inside of myself. To live each day more fully. To stretch myself further. To chase more dreams. To never give up on love. I think Florence can offer me this. It is not that I don't try to do this already, but I think we all need a "charge" of electricity of inspiration. This can come from many places; a book, a place, a poem, or a person.

I doubt I will visit many, if any museums or historic places; it is Florence herself I am wanting to see. I want to hear her sounds, smell her smells, see the sun rise and set upon her. I want to "be" a part of her, even if it is short lived. While I would love to visit the museums and sites, I have not studied them in detail. I have not prepared for this part of Florence. I suspect I will do so another time, then return to spend more intimate moments with Florence's children - her art, architecture, her history.

I think for me, more importantly, will be to share this trip with friends. When I went to Spain, I went by myself. While I had fun, I wished I was sharing it with someone special. Ed'Veeje and her sister, Raquel, are special friends, whom I look forward to experiencing Italy with. They have been several times, so they will be guides. I do not think I will be disappointed.