My brother,
I'm in Riace. My long train journey has finally come to an end and I'm going to stay here for a while.
I'm bringing my baggage full of memories, emotions and cultures from home to this new continent.
I'm staying in a building by the sea with people from all over the world who come here to exchange their cultures.
It's a concrete monument. Rigorous at first glance, it houses a wide variety of architectural styles in a forest of posts. This free plan allows for difference, it doesn't impose a way of life; everyone can find their own.
The first few days were impressive. I was welcomed and cared for on the first floor in a dormitory while I waited for my papers to be processed. It was a rich experience as I got to meet my future friends. Soon, I'll be able to stay on the second floor in single rooms or on the top floor in small shared apartments. Since I've made two friends, we'll prefer to go to the top floor together.
Yesterday, we ate with a lovely family. They live on the second floor in a small apartment that reminds me of our uncle's house. In the early afternoon, when it's getting hot, after a game of backgammon with the guys, we take a nap in the hammocks under the roof. In the shade, with the cool sea breeze, it's a great place to relax.
It's a great place, and I'm learning every day. Despite the language barrier, I'm able to communicate with people from all walks of life, cooking, painting, making music and playing games. Everyone has so much to contribute, even the inhabitants of the neighboring village of Riace came to teach us how to weave.
Hope to see you in Riace, with love...