Benedetto.

Something I learned about myself:

“That’s the whole point.” This starts with a story. As I was walking out of the Upper Basilica of St. Francis this past Saturday, I was on cloud nine. I had just been in one of the most beautiful churches I had ever seen, and was so aware of all the blessings that the Lord has given me. When I exited the church, my breath was taken away by the beautiful Italian countryside to my right, the words ‘pax’ and the Tau cross in front of me, and the basilica behind me. There was so much beauty, I almost couldn’t speak (keyword: almost. . .). I looked to my friend Laura and said to her “It’s just one of those moments where I can’t even begin to comprehend how good God is.”, her simple response of “That’s the whole point” was one of the most profound things I’ve heard all semester. I truly believe that that is one of the most important lessons I will learn in my lifetime—God’s glory is so much greater than I will ever comprehend, and I will never be able to comprehend how good He is.

Behind me.

In front of me. 

                                       To my right.                                      

The Best Thing That I Ate:

At this moment, I’m still full which means I am one happy girl. Tonight we went out to dinner and despite the fact that I ate my weight in starburst (thanks mom and dad) all afternoon, I was still ready for a solid meal. Enter chicken parmesan and penne alla vodka. Done and done.

Mmmmmmmmmmmmmm.              

An Adventure I Went On:

Assisi! As a part of my class, we went to Assisi for the day on Saturday. This was one of the places I was most looking forward to visiting all semester, so it was truly a dream come true. The city and experience far exceeded my expectations, which I didn’t think was possible. The weather could not have been more perfect, I made a new Franciscan friend (shout out to Fr. Joseph!), and all the churches we visited fulfilled me in ways I didn’t think were possible. It’s moments like that where you’re on your knees praying and there’s nothing to say because you’re so darn grateful.

Walking up the hill from the Sam Damiano Church. 

In front of St. Francis' Basilica. 

Wouldn't be complete without me taking creepy pics of Franciscans.               

The Craziest/Most Interesting Thing That I Saw:

Masses of people for mass. Hahahaha, I’m laughing at my own joke. Once Annie and I settled into our seats, which happened to be two rows back, I threw up a couple prayers of thanksgiving and then I turned around. And this is what I saw:

                                         

Hundreds of thousands of people. All there for the same reason: to celebrate mass with the Holy Father. People of all different ages, from all walks of life, and from different countries were all there to celebrate Palm Sunday mass. It was not only humbling, but gave me a profound sense of hope for our Church. Oh, and this was kind of crazy, too. . .

Like a boss.