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Bob Kuchman's avatar

Brenna…I admire your quest for authenticity. That is one of the definitions of an artist, right? …showing us what you see…being authentic. Your personal perception has uncovered layers of reality that are right before our eyes that we often just don’t acknowledge. While writing this comment I am recalling the chapter entitled “Breaking the Sameness” from Rick Rubin’s “The Creative Act”. Sometimes to experience one’s own potential one must change up one’s perspective. The “domani” principal has the potential to change one’s perception of much more that just time.

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Brenna's avatar

Thanks Bob :) I really need to read this book now! It's on hold at the Library but I'm 26th in line!

I have been re-reading this comment to let it all sink in. Thanks for encouraging and supporting my art.

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Clare Egan's avatar

I really related to this. In Italy, I have to consciously turn off my efficient brain if I want to enjoy my trip. There's a lot to learn from this approach to life, but it can also be enormously frustrating.

Glad you got the counter top in the end though too :)

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Brenna's avatar

I always say there's a 50% chance it won't happen! That helps me reframe things and roll with the punches.

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Molly Last's avatar

I had an American mentally moment last week. I needed something mailed and showed up at he Post Office 15 minutes before closing. To my bad luck the clerk had already closed out the computer.. My first response (so American) was what the sign on the door says your open until 1;30pm. The girl just shrugged her shoulders but I was livid because I had walked 1/2 to get into town to mail a letter. But then I thought about it.. it's just a letter. It's not worth insisting that the Italian Post Office be closed on time. There's always tomorrow and another opportunity.

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Brenna's avatar

Confession : I refuse to go to La poste. 😂 the one near my house has a very strange metal detector that you get locked into for a few seconds before entering a circus full of people and flashing signs. I just decided it was “not my vibe” and have been relying on the tobacchiao. 😂 good for you for letting that one go Molly!

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Clarice Dankers's avatar

I know you're trying to make the best of the situation, and you're right that Americans take time much too seriously, but still. It must have been really frustrating wondering when--or if--your countertop would be delivered!

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Brenna's avatar

Thanks Clarice. It’s hard not to let the frustrations get to me!

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Rodrigo Lopez's avatar

"Neapolitans don’t have a plan, except for what they’re eating for dinner tonight."

Gold. Thank you for sharing Brenna.

Brava.

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