Third Reflection - Tim Spichiger

Tim Spichiger Reflection 3

My time in Italy was very enlightening and I am very grateful for the experience. I commented in an earlier reflection that I really admired the people but, even more so, I really came to love the culture. There is a sense of calmness and love for many aspects of the culture, especially for my favorite part of the trip: the food. At dinner, for instance, can consist of a few courses that are well spaced out. You do not realize how fast time passes after you walk out of one of these meals that has lasted for three or four hours. It makes it very easy to enjoy a very large meal, especially when it is eight courses. In addition, an espresso, a croissant, a desert limoncello or glass of prosecco is not something you consume in a short period of time in Italian culture. These small staples of Italian cuisine are all treats that you enjoy slowly. I heard once that the average American eats a meal in about eight minutes while the average European averages a half hour. This fact stood out on this trip. From now on I will be sure to slowly enjoy each piece of good food, drink or ice cream I have in the future. 

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