Postcard from Sicily 🇮🇹: 5 life lessons from a traveler

I’ve been a little quiet lately while spending time with family in Europe, and I’ve been continually struck by the realization—wow, we live in such a beautiful world!

It would be easy to romanticize the laid-back Sicilian lifestyle and fully embrace the phrase, “il dolce far niente”—the sweetness of doing nothing. But the truth is, as a traveler eager to soak in the experiences this incredible island had to offer, it wasn’t quite the slow and leisurely escape I had initially envisioned. While we did manage to enjoy some sweet moments of relaxation, it was more of a dance between exploration and taking a breather.

As much as I love the idea of lounging by the sea with a good book, the traveler in me always feels an urge to go beyond the surface. I wanted to explore the hidden corners, wander through small villages, and, of course, savor every bite of the local cuisine. If your travel style is anything like mine, you know that balancing adventure with rest is a delicate art. I wanted to do it all—see the ruins, taste the seafood, stroll through the markets, and still find time to relax under the Mediterranean sun. 

While this post isn’t directly related to hormones, the lessons I picked up on this trip feel universal—and they’re definitely ones I plan to carry forward in my daily life. Here are five life lessons I learned during my recent travels:

Postcard from Sicily

1. Savor the small pleasures—like a tiny cup of espresso.

Italy is synonymous with espresso (among other delicious things), and there’s nothing quite like sipping a smooth, creamy shot from its birthplace. In the United States, we tend to favor supersized portions, and that includes our coffee. But in Italy, I found myself delighting in the petite servings. Each small cup contained exactly what I needed—no more, no less. It was a beautiful reminder to slow down and savor the small pleasures in life. 

Too often, I’m guilty of rushing through routines, but this little shift helped me appreciate those small yet impactful moments. Whether it’s a morning coffee, a beautiful view, or a quiet moment of reflection, there’s so much value in pausing to fully experience life.

2. The universal language of a smile.

In Rome, our first stop, it was easy to blend into the sea of subway riders, all moving with quiet determination and stoic expressions. Everyone seemed to be in a hurry, focused on their destination, and it was easy to adopt that same mindset. In Sicily, we had a car and skipped public transportation, but I noticed something interesting at our final stop in Munich. On the train, people smiled at us—something we hadn’t experienced elsewhere, nor have I experienced in previous Eurotrips. That simple gesture left a lasting impression on me. A smile is such a small thing, but it has the power to transform your day. In a foreign country, where you may not speak the language fluently, a smile is a way of saying, “I see you. We’re in this together.” 

It’s incredible how much a smile can brighten someone’s day, and it reminded me of the importance of extending kindness, even in fleeting moments. I’ll definitely be smiling more at strangers at home. It’s a reminder that no matter where you are in the world, kindness transcends language.

3. Tradition is a gift that grounds us.

Europe is a treasure trove of history, but Sicily felt special. From Greek temples to Baroque churches, the island’s architecture reflects centuries of evolving cultures and shifting empires. Sicilians hold tightly to their traditions, in a way I hadn’t experienced on the Italian mainland. This sense of continuity was echoed when we reached Munich during Oktoberfest, where locals and tourists alike donned traditional Bavarian garb. 

There’s something profound about honoring the past and weaving tradition into the fabric of the present. It reminded me that in a fast-paced world, reconnecting with our roots can give us a sense of identity and belonging—a foundation from which we can grow. Whether it’s through food, music, or family customs, tradition is a way to remember where we’ve come from and celebrate how far we’ve traveled.

4. Connection over perfection.

One of my favorite memories from the trip happened in Rome when we met a group of women from Napoli. They didn’t speak much English, but that didn’t stop them from striking up a conversation with us. Between hand gestures, broken Italian, and shared laughter, we managed to connect. We didn’t need perfect grammar or a shared language to communicate—we just needed a willingness to try.

This experience showed me that true communication isn’t just about speaking the same language—it’s about openness, empathy, and a willingness to connect, even when words fall short. We laughed, we mimed, spoke in broken phrases, and somehow, we understood each other. It was a reminder that communication is about so much more than words.

In a world where we’re often so focused on being understood, it’s easy to forget that communication is a two-way street. It’s about listening, being present, and sometimes letting go of the need for everything to be perfect. I left that conversation feeling lighter, reminded that connection is possible even in the most unexpected ways.

5. Gratitude.

I’m still in awe of the breathtaking experiences and unforgettable moments from this trip. Traveling is a profound opportunity that I don’t take lightly. From the stunning views of the Sicilian coastline to the vibrant energy of Oktoberfest, every moment felt like a gift.

Even though I’m still processing everything, one thing is clear—gratitude is what stays with me the most. It’s a simple yet powerful reminder to appreciate the beauty and wonder that life offers, no matter where we find ourselves. Whether it’s the awe-inspiring sights of a new destination or the quiet moments spent with family, there’s always something to be thankful for in this beautiful life.

Moving Forward with a Renewed Perspective

Travel has a way of putting life into perspective. From the joy of a small cup of coffee to the shared smiles of strangers, this trip was a reminder that the simple things hold the most meaning. As I settle back into my routine, I’m carrying these lessons with me—a renewed sense of gratitude, a deeper appreciation for tradition, and a reminder to slow down and savor life’s small moments.

Whether you’re on a grand adventure or simply navigating your day-to-day, I hope these reflections inspire you to live more intentionally, wherever you are. Life is full of beautiful moments—sometimes you just need to slow down long enough to notice them.