my rome story:

On my second trip to Roma, en route to Rhodes, I was there for only one afternoon looking for a place to change the last of my dollars. I checked into the youth hostel and proceeded downtown to find currency exchange. I passed Plaza Venezia then explored a little capilla across the way for some meditation and a prayer asking for protection. I was venturing off to Greece with only $40 in cash.

When I exited the church there was a congested boulevard of cars and scooters to cross. I waited for traffic to die down then noticed a little old man standing beside me. I asked him if he was also attempting to cross "la strada." He proceeded to tell me the history of the Mussolini museum across the street, which is where Mussolini was killed. Not sure that I understood all of his storytelling, but parlare Italiano I needed.

I smiled and nodded taking it all in. Fifteen minutes later we crossed two stradas. As I gave my farewell, he asked if I wanted a shot of espresso. We entered a nearby cafe for our fix. I told Mario, this 85-year old Italian, that I was on my way to find a money exchange place. Mario decided to accompany me and directed me to his bank far away. va bene!

As we walked, my tour guide told me everything there was to know about Roman history. I realized my Italian was a bit rusty! We arrived at his bank to find it chiuso (closed), but I noticed a Western Union across the way. I said my goodbyes once again, but Mario insisted on coming along. Va bene,,, Western Union is not a good place to exchange! They charge a high commission, but when there isn't much, it doesn't really matter. I took my 40 Euros and we exited.

I thanked Mario for his help and turned to leave, then Mario took out his wallet and handed me a crisp 50 Euro bill. "Perque??," I asked in amazement,,, Why are you giving me this? I wasn't sure that I could accept it. Mario responded... "I am retired, I don't need it, you need it."

WOW,,, I couldn't believe it. My $40 turned to 90 Euros. Truly, I was blessed.  KARMA.