Terrific post. I'm Canadian - born to two Italian immigrants. I am a romantic - always have been. Had no idea that the nonchalance, pretend to feel nothing persona was rooted in religion. Terrific insight.
For me, feeling big is not a choice, it's a reality.
absolutely loved this one. I have a friend who is CRASHING out over a 4 month relationship and I keep thinking how nice it is to be around someone who truly lets themself FEEL. (which I occasionally think I am determined to never do again because my heart got so broken two years ago.) thanks for sharing this, in the same vein... loved it.
Beautifully written and it's a refreshing perspective. I also come from a Latin (catholic) culture but grew up in Nordic (protestant) cultures... I've often felt off when it comes to emotionality in relations. This historical perspective on romance and feeling is eye opening! Thank you for it
On one hand you have to be vulnerable to truly connect, on the other hand don't build someone up in your mind before the relationship actually progresses to that point. (This is not a criticism of the author; this is a criticism of my younger self)
Excellently written. Envious of your Italian dream 😩
I worry that OLD, in depersonalizing everything and speeding up rejection, strongly incentivizes this sort of closed-offedness. Everyone gets guarded as hell and then wonders why they’re not finding love.
This was so lovely to read- it makes me think about my year abroad in Spain at 18.
I remember being so struck by my host father’s evident, explicit love and adoration of his daughters (my host sisters) and his wife (my host mom). I realized how deprived of vibrancy, of life force, my own relationships to people had been in the states, particularly to my own dad.
Also had a few life-giving romances that will stick with me forever (love a Lizzie McGuire moment)! :)
thank you for sharing and allowing me to reflect. Love and hugs from Atlanta, Georgia! 💛
I absolutely love this post, and the manner in which you told your story. You're gifted. The moment in Italy is dream-worthy. It's the type of love, wild, passionate, and authentic, that we all dream about. The juxtaposition between that moment and the societal norm of nonchalance is such a painful one. I'm so sorry you went through that.
I believe wholeheartedly that romance is sacred. That there is truth and freedom in expression of big, bold, dreamy romance. No, it isn't to be forced, but when it's felt, feel it fully.
Part of why I write romance is because of this -- because I'm a man that wants to change the tide of romance, to write and inspire men to be tender and authentic and sensual.
Thank you for your post. I'm really glad to have found you on here.
Terrific post. I'm Canadian - born to two Italian immigrants. I am a romantic - always have been. Had no idea that the nonchalance, pretend to feel nothing persona was rooted in religion. Terrific insight.
For me, feeling big is not a choice, it's a reality.
I’m the same. Feeling big is also something I really enjoy. Let’s celebrate it!
absolutely loved this one. I have a friend who is CRASHING out over a 4 month relationship and I keep thinking how nice it is to be around someone who truly lets themself FEEL. (which I occasionally think I am determined to never do again because my heart got so broken two years ago.) thanks for sharing this, in the same vein... loved it.
Feeling is the best. ❤️
Beautifully written and it's a refreshing perspective. I also come from a Latin (catholic) culture but grew up in Nordic (protestant) cultures... I've often felt off when it comes to emotionality in relations. This historical perspective on romance and feeling is eye opening! Thank you for it
On one hand you have to be vulnerable to truly connect, on the other hand don't build someone up in your mind before the relationship actually progresses to that point. (This is not a criticism of the author; this is a criticism of my younger self)
To the author, very enjoyable writing!
Excellently written. Envious of your Italian dream 😩
I worry that OLD, in depersonalizing everything and speeding up rejection, strongly incentivizes this sort of closed-offedness. Everyone gets guarded as hell and then wonders why they’re not finding love.
Everyone gets guarded as they get older? Is that what you’re saying?
Ahh I meant online dating 😅 I guess that acronym doesn’t travel
This was so lovely to read- it makes me think about my year abroad in Spain at 18.
I remember being so struck by my host father’s evident, explicit love and adoration of his daughters (my host sisters) and his wife (my host mom). I realized how deprived of vibrancy, of life force, my own relationships to people had been in the states, particularly to my own dad.
Also had a few life-giving romances that will stick with me forever (love a Lizzie McGuire moment)! :)
thank you for sharing and allowing me to reflect. Love and hugs from Atlanta, Georgia! 💛
Thank you for sharing ❤️ incredible you were able to have a coming of age moment in the vibrant love of Europe, too. It’s life changing stuff
I love this so much Laura!! Thank you!
is it better to speak or to die?
I absolutely love this post, and the manner in which you told your story. You're gifted. The moment in Italy is dream-worthy. It's the type of love, wild, passionate, and authentic, that we all dream about. The juxtaposition between that moment and the societal norm of nonchalance is such a painful one. I'm so sorry you went through that.
I believe wholeheartedly that romance is sacred. That there is truth and freedom in expression of big, bold, dreamy romance. No, it isn't to be forced, but when it's felt, feel it fully.
Part of why I write romance is because of this -- because I'm a man that wants to change the tide of romance, to write and inspire men to be tender and authentic and sensual.
Thank you for your post. I'm really glad to have found you on here.