love transatlantic style

Autophobia: the fear of being alone.

before i came to italy, i was pretty confident that i suffered mildly from autophobia. when i first moved into the kater street house, i remember calling to rachael at night like a child, because my room was so big, and empty. i rarely go anywhere alone. the grocery store, CVS, for a walk, for a run. i like to be with people. in fact, i would go as far as to say i was dependent on being WITH people. and i'm sure my friends will attest to this..

part of my intentions on going to italy alone, was to test the waters of my solidarity. now, only two months into my journey, i am overjoyed at the ease of my transition. i have been showered with love from all over the globe. i have learned in these past two months, how much i am truly loved, and cared for. i am desperately trying to put into words how grateful i am for you all. i was close to tears today after recieving a THIRD package...this time from sarah and liz, complete with halloween goodies, hello kitty, and a HOT new winter coat (which i was in need of desperately).

at this point i'm pretty much close to spontaneous combustion from all this lovin. god has shown me so much about love. i'm sure you have all heard my stance on relationships on this point...and why i am so content without one. and after a long conversation with a DEAR friend, we concluded: love does not have to be found only in a romantic setting. certainly, there is something to be said for the profound love of a romantic relationship. love is simply love. whether it is a sisterly love, friendly love, or romatic love. all love is god's love. i see that more than ever. i have a love that will never fail me. and this i know for sure with all that god has blessed me with here in rome. i know this from the constant reminders from all my loved ones back in the states. thank you all for your sweet lovin. (i know...i need to stop before you run for the tissues.) but please know you are the loves of my life.