17/05/2021
As I walked down via de’ Benci, Santa Croce’s bells reverberated off the buildings before noon. Other bells chimed in only a few minutes later. The Duomo’s solemn gongs filled the air with reverence.
At the intersection, I crossed Lungarno delle Grazie. My eyes followed the lampposts lined up along the brick wall to the right. In the distance, the Ponte Vecchio spanned the river.
Before I reached the sidewalk, I paused. For years, I’ve stood along this part of the Arno to watch sunrises and to revel in the riverscape. Whenever I see a bicycle parked near a lamppost, I smile. I don’t know why it brings me such joy, but it does.
With my hip resting against the barrier, I scanned the view. Water trickled over the weir below Ponte alle Grazie, setting the tone of the day. Calm and steady. Gentle puffs of wind passed by without disturbing the reflections on the Arno. A pigeon arrived next to me, wobbling down the sidewalk and pecking at the ground.
Along the meadow below Lungarno Serristori, nature has taken over. Beige-colored reeds fill in the gaps between the shrubs and trees. The mix of colors and textures reflected on the river filled me with tranquility.
The statue of David in Piazzale Michelangiolo, hovering above the dark-leafed trees, caught my attention. My eyes grazed San Miniato al Monte’s facade and paused on the gold mosaic. I squinted to perceive the eagle atop the basilica, but couldn’t make out any details. That it stands above the city appeased me.
The pastel-colored palazzi across from me created a harmonious backdrop for the riverscape. Giardino Bardini’s lush grass, glowing under the gray skies, enticed me.
Time slows down when I notice more of my surroundings. I fall even deeper in love with my beloved city. To appreciate these moments in Florence’s embrace is to appreciate life.
