Last Day of my Italian Class

Yesterday was the last day of my Italian language course and I have so many thoughts on my journey with the course...I want to share all of my thoughts and feelings without blubbering. First let me say that taking an Italian language course in Italian in Italy is not for the faint at heart. I expected the course to be difficult and a challenge, but it has been that and so much more than I ever imagined. Fun, challenging, enlightening....so many things, but also not-so-fun at times and very emotional, sad, revealing and frustrating. And I loved all of it and at the same time I still feel frustrated, angry, sad and disappointed in myself that I did not pick up the language more. I know, I know...I shouldn't judge my learning process, etc, etc., I do see a glimpse of the bigger picture which is revealed more and more to me every day and that is everything happened just as it was supposed to. Thinking, feeling and knowing this gives me peace in moments of disappointment.

And of course...the people...the characters in this Italian story of mine, that I have met, interacted with, liked, disliked, laughed and cried with and even scolded...all are very unique and brought a new perspective. A broad description on the students -- they made my day...and I have my favorites -- Julia my lovely housemate, well...let me count the ways I adore her! And each of the other students that I can't wait to tell you about! I am delighted I came to the school when I did and was placed in class with younger students. And...my time with the students reminds me of why I like working with young adults so much and of course gets me to thinking about what I will do for work when I return home. So, me and the other students...this concept was brilliant...a tool and a perfect timing and place to show and teach me many things.

And the staff...in the small 5-week world of my course, "staff" consists of only Sabrina and Mauro...and Giorgia a bit. I blogged a few weeks ago that Sabrina told me that learning a new language reveals a person's soul (and that's no so pretty sometimes) and that description has stuck with me. While I am not content with knowledge of speaking Italian, I, without a shred of doubt recognize the other blessings and lessons of my course. Taking this course has helped me understand the English language better...the technical side of it and the components that are difficult to teach. AND through this course, I can give myself a pat on the back and know that I can understand much of a conversation and I can read much of Italian and I can even say a few things:)...all of which give me an unbelievable motivation and desire to continue learning Italian wherever I am. Lastly, my Italian course has been more eye-opening, revealing, the best kick-in-the-ass, therapeutic experience I have been through...more than any therapy I have ever had. I had so many painful and joyful epifanies (a-ha moments:) each day, lots of crying and laughing. I am more clear (but would still like to be clearer:) on my strengths and weaknesses...mainly weaknesses and more clear on my learning style. I am definitely a backward thinker. Sabrina's way of opening my heart and mind to the how-tos of this language was patient and gentle and I am in love with her spirit. Mauro's way of teaching shows his genuine passion for the language and the history of his culture, but also for each and every student and their quirks and challenges. I could see clearly that every day of lessons he was determined to help me understand my blocks and challenges and we worked through them in a way that was fun, enlightening and even uncomfortable. And then when I would understand....it was amazing!

So, that's the shortest way I can explain my thoughts on Saena Iulia. Perhaps I will add or edit more thoughts later...this one concept though brings about many, many thoughts. So...now I am moving out of my host house and into an apartment soon. Now I will be travelling around, meeting new people and visiting spas of course (I actually have almost forgotten that's one of the reasons I am here!) Luckily though I will still go to Saena Iulia through the week and use the computer (still no lap top...don't get me started on that:) and go on the excursions every Thursday with the students. This slow transition will make it easier for me to leave the students and school where the feeling of familiarity could keep me from some of my other purposes here in Italy.