When I first stepped off my Lufthansa flight from Boston to Florence, Italy, I thought I knew what I was in for. Surely, my semester abroad was to be filled with copious amounts of wine, Renaissance art, and picture-perfect views. Thankfully, it was — but what I am truly thankful for is the discoveries I found within myself.
Immediately, I came to understand that Florence has a way of teaching beyond the class. Whether that be in the curve of a Renaissance dome, the laughter shared over a Hugo Spritz, or the patient cadence of learning a new language, every inch of the fresco-filled city shaped me into the current version of myself. Strangely enough, my biggest takeaway was regarding comfort.
Being someone that thrives with a routine, I immediately struggled with the unpredictability of my new life; my meals, the people that I interacted with, and the sights that I walked beside had been warped overnight. Instead of my sugar ridden comfort coffee: a medium iced almond milk vanilla latte, I was forced to face an unimaginable fear: a coffee without syrup.
Although I am being slightly sarcastic, this minute change was just the beginning of the cultural shift that truly was a blessing in disguise. Sugary coffees turned to cappuccinos, sweatpants turned to slacks, and my chaotic life became more slower paced.
For the first time in what felt like ages, I was able to enjoy the mundane moments in life. Something as simple as taking in the laughter over antipasti, appreciating the taste of an authentic chianti wine, or walking like I owned the city became my reality. Each day held a new exciting scene of events to unfold. Would I try a new wine, practice my broken Italian, or smile at locals? Truly, I never knew what the next day was going to hold, and admittedly, this was the highlight of my experience.
Being uncomfortable became my new “normal”; I learned to be comfortable being uncomfortable. It feels silly to say, but I truly came to understand that personal growth and resilience are at an ultimate high when you push your boundaries. Discomfort, although unsettling at times, can be a huge catalyst for change. Being uncomfortable is how we grow; it’s how we condition ourselves to face future obstacles and flourish into the best versions of ourselves.
By the end of the semester, Florence was more than a place on a map. It was a reflection of the new person that I had become and a culmination of the lessons learned. When I left, I carried more than silly souvenirs. I brought back a new perspective on the world and myself; one that encouraged a deeper appreciation for the little things in life. Months later, I continue to yearn for the city that I once called home. But mark my words, Firenze, I will be back for you!
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