March, 2023
The Breakfast Diaries
My study abroad course, See Naples and Die, focused on ecological and urban phenomena surrounding the problems of the Urban Heat Island Effect in Naples. We mainly examined the topic through “mapping” as we traveled through different towns in Naples; we explored and mapped the ancient waterways through the aqueducts. Our professors emphasized the importance of paying attention to the details of the present; mapping places and locations through on site sketches and journaling.
The expression “See Naples and Die”, or “Vedi Napoli e poi muori”, refers to the stunning beauty and allure of the city. Originating in the 18th and 19th century from a letter written by Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe, it was commonly used by travelers and artists who were captivated by the city’s breathtaking scenery, vibrant culture, and artistic treasures. The phrase suggests that after experiencing the magnificence of Naples, one has witnessed something so extraordinary that there is nothing else left to surpass it. It reflects the belief that Naples was a pinnacle of beauty and an experience that should not be missed in one’s lifetime. Being surrounded by such beauty and new experiences, and through the constant act of mapping, I grew a sense of mindfulness regarding my surroundings. Fully immersing myself in the sights, sounds, and sensations of the foreign place, I not only opened my heart and mind to appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of a destination but also to not be scared of unfamiliar places—you can always map out the unknown.
Throughout my time in Italy, I woke up early every morning, heading out to a cafe where I would start my day with a cup of cappuccino, and a pistachio croissant, doing my devotionals. It was also the only time I had to myself before jumping into the busyness of our class schedules. And I quickly came to realize that I found immense peace in this morning routine—the streets slowly fill with locals and tourists, people coming in and out of the cafe that I’ve become a regular at, the friendly “bon journo”s, and the smell of the warm pastries and freshly ground espressos—these naturally became part of my intricate map of Naples. These moments are also small portions of delight and peace that I still hold dearly to.
Those mornings also allowed me to grow an appreciation for breakfasts. I began to understand why my mother had always emphasized eating breakfast together as a family. In a sense, breakfast is so intentional: to take the time in the morning to enjoy a meal, even if it’s for a small moment, one needs to wake up earlier to make that time to eat, or to cook—especially when you eat with others. Eating breakfast with others means that you are willingly choosing to start the day together, to start the day in fellowship and fostering a sense of togetherness; in reminding us of the importance of shared experiences and the value of taking care of ourselves and those around us. Top me, breakfast tables become a special place where you share meals with the people you love and care about the most.
Doing morning devotionals during breakfast, I also discovered the unwavering faithfulness of God. It provided the stillness I craved in my restless mind, especially as I wrestled with anxiety and the search for my identity and purpose in the world. I realized that His words are the vital nourishment my soul requires. Just as we feed our bodies to sustain physical life, we need to seek spiritual sustenance through prayer, meditation, and His words. The act of eating also serves as a reminder to nourish our souls, to foster qualities such as love, compassion, and gratitude.
To be honest, I had feared that I'd grow distant from God during my study abroad in Italy. I would be away from my campus ministry and unable to attend church regularly—I was doubtful and wondered if my faith could still be nurtured when all alone in a foreign country. However, as I embarked on my journey, I soon discovered that my fears were unfounded. Instead of growing distant, God drew me ever closer to Him. I realized that faith surpasses all physical boundaries and can be nourished through His words, personal reflection, and a willingness to explore and embrace new challenges of life. Rather than dwelling in the walls of my comfort, my faith grew stronger as I embraced the unknown and the unfamiliar. In this way, Naples has truly been a place where I saw a glimpse of something so extraordinary that there is nothing else left to surpass it—except that "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; 23 they are new every morning" (Lamentations 3:22-23), and God continues to overextend and His grace more and more every day.
Sitting in that local cafe every morning, amid strangers and conversations I do not understand, Italy instilled in me a newfound trust in God. Knowing that our location in this world does not dictate His, I am reminded that He is with me everywhere and anywhere I go. Under his guidance, I also discovered a newfound joy and motivation that pushed me out of my comfort zone and towards exploring the unknown. I realized that no matter where I ventured, whether it be near or far, accompanied by others or journeying alone, I know to trust in the Lord with all my heart, and not to lean on my own understanding (Proverbs 3:5). Especially after praying and begging God for “just one more year in Providence”, being in Italy for six weeks brought me great comfort and courage to leave the very place I’ve come to call home for the past four years. He turned my post-grad anxiety into excitement, looking forward to the new adventures He has in store for me. After all, God commands us to “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation” (Mark 15:16).
“Let the morning bring me the word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you.
Show me the way I should go, for you I entrust my life”
Psalm 143:8
In the realm of unfamiliar territory, love does not hand you a map and send you off into the unknown by yourself; instead, it accompanies you as a faithful companion, guiding you through the uncharted paths toward the destination. Through these moments of solitude during breakfast, I have come to realize that I have never walked and will never walk alone. Christ guides and walks alongside me through the intricate life of the unknown, leading me with His divine wisdom and purpose. To walk and map the unknown is to follow Christ, walking in His teachings and embodying His love. Regardless of where I find myself, in every corner of the world, I don’t have to be anxious about anything. I know that He is at hand, and His peace and love that surpasses all understanding, will guard my heart and mind through the unknown—His words are a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.