Tales From Overseas: Everyday People in Florence

 When I first arrived here, it was a quite a challenge for me to connect with some of the Italians. My spoken Italian was poor, and many of the Italians do not feel the need to even attempt to speak English. Communicating became a struggle. I found myself finding alternative ways to communicate. Hand gestures and various eye motions became my first language. Not speaking as much and observing became my number one hobby.

It has been two months since I have been in Florence and my spoken Italian has improved immensely. I have met some great Italian friends. Walking into local coffee bars and shops and having random conversations with Italians has become my new hobby.

Everyday on my way to classes I take the same route, travel down the same allies, and see the same people. So one day, on my way home from class, I decided to stop by and take a few photos of one of the hidden shops I pass by everyday.

I went into this small but cozy, violin shop owned by an Italian/Columbian older gentleman named Aldo. He's been restoring violins for over 20 years. He initially caught me taking photos of the shop and invited me to come in and take a look around. "Usually people just stand outside the shop and stare at the window. They never have the courage to come in the shop.

You're pretty bold." He said to me. I told him that one thing I learned in my 20 years of living is that there is no room to be shy in the journalism or fashion industry. He chuckled.

We talked about Florence and our upbringings and families. It's always wonderful to see that although the both of us are from two totally different areas, we shared/share similar human struggles.

I didn't spend much time in the shop, but I could tell that the little time I did spend in the shop was valued. My visit to Aldo's shop reminded me that there is more to life then making money, flashy material items, and partying. Just a simple conversation with a stranger has the capacity to change someone's day from good to great. Him being so open to talk to me about his family and upbringing surely made my day.