In a world turned upside down, we know that we can’t return to what was, yet we have no idea what will be. Although much has changed, one thing hasn’t: our love for Italy. Over the past few months, we’ve wept for the lives lost. We’ve worried about friends and loved ones. We’ve sadly cancelled our plans to visit. Yet when asked if I miss Italy, I say no. I’ve been going to Italy every day— and have found both comfort and inspiration.

Italy, now as in the past, remains a great teacher. Over the course of almost 3,000 years, everything that could happen to a people or a country has happened there. The seemingly invincible Roman Empire crumbled. Barbarians pillaged. Plagues ravaged. Wars claimed countless lives. Governments and economies collapsed. Yet after each calamity, Italy flickered back to life.