Bonus!

Let's just say I'm feeling festive, but thought I'd add a little aesthetics to the blog . . .

During our stay, we learn about the saints who so influence the history of the area where we live. St. Catherine, for the love of the Church, built her influence so greatly that she was able to convince the Papacy to return to Rome, and to have a new effective Pope installed to the See. For the love of his city, Siena, St. Bernardino (he's recognizable by the IHS on his bible in any artwork) preached throughout the city and dedicated his life to ensuring the faith of the people of his city. When we get to Rome, we'll learn about the sacrifices which many people made to ensure that their gifts were used to bless the city. Out of love/respect for the Pope (and not necessarily pleasure), Michaelangelo painted the Sistine Chapel, and created such amazing works such as the Pieta. In love, Peter and Paul both brought themselves to Rome in knowledge that they would end their journeys there.

We do many things for love. Out of love for your children, you made the sacrifice emotionally and financially to send them on this experience. And, out of love of them, you listen to them and allow them to experience these great changes as young adults. For love of having a "family" in her home, my homestay mom continues hosting people, even though she has recently lost her only son (just this spring), after her husband's death a few years ago. For the love of Italy, I began this program, and specially choose the students who will join me each year. And, for the greatest love I've known, I will probably soon end these trips and continue my life onto even better unknown things.

St. Paul says that the greatest of all things is love, and I believe that, if you allow your life to be driven by love, everything else falls easily into place.

L ;)