The Truly Faithful Would Never Abuse People At The Hands Of Their Small-minded Religion

...a friend of mine recently shared the following testimony:

--
"I am so very hurt right now! I have lost many friends and family members from my life due to the fact that I am a lesbian and it seems I might have lost one more because of this fact.

Although I appreciate your concern for my eternal salvation, I need everyone to know this is not a lifestyle choice; it is a part of who I am! When I was younger I did so much damage to myself and others around me desperately trying to ignore who I am. It finally came to the point to where I had to be honest with myself and everyone around me or die, and I came very, very close to dying.

I chose to live. That was many years ago and I have never and will never regret that decision.

Being gay is not something you can just pray away, nor is it something that you can go to therapy for to get rid of and there is not a pill you can take to make it go away! It is not something I can laser off like a tattoo, Botox away like a wrinkle or put makeup over to conceal! It is simply a part of my person. You can choose to continue to love and accept me for who I am or you can delete me from your life. Either way I will continue to be a much happier person being who I am and loving myself just the way I am. I have several flaws but being a lesbian is not one of them!"
--

My perspective and response on this topic were of course lengthy and blunt: (What else is new?)

"Your message above was inspiring and a blessing!

Some folks are a muse for love and acceptance, while others are a muzzle for truth and grace. You are truly a muse!

As for your self-professed, "ex-friend"; they are undoubtedly in a very sad place. A place that designs and depends on false persecutions and fear; so that they might mistakenly imagine, some deeper love from God (and perhaps, new, "Christian" friends,) will be bestowed on them.

As if, due to their own imaginative diligence and bravery, they have earned reverence and respect. Unfortunately, they have very little understanding for the God they so desperately seek to impress.

It is their own life and "religion", which will continue to be a harsh struggle; due to the shallow, sad, version of lacking love, depth and understanding they possess. While on the contrary, your own life has found depth and liberation; though the acceptance and survival of the confusion, pain, circumstances and misunderstandings your own past has dealt you.

As your own life was faced with extreme hardships and confusion at times; you honored it with wisdom and grace. And while your confused friend sought salvation, and "Christian community"; they in turn, insulted their God with narrow-minded thinking and a complete perversion of any meaning Christ's sacrificial death represented. They have lost all perspective, (assuming they ever had it?) for what the cross so painfully represents and what purpose His unconditional atonement served.

It is often incredible, how poorly interpreted life can be at times. We live in a place so entirely full of irony. Just astounding! ...but I do still believe it all has purpose!

Your strength and honesty are both, an inspiration to all of us who understand. Hopefully, a revelation to any of those who live in a world of lies and fear. ...not to mention those who encourage, completely contorted and reckless methods of worship, religion and/or bad theology.

It is a sad state of affairs when people close to us seek or discover a faith, based on grace; and yet manage to ignore or avoid its' clear messages in order to feed their own insecure version of purpose and belonging!

Only the smallest-minded of Christians override the message of God in order to undermine the hearts of others!!!

Simply put, they use religion to find fault in others, so that they might feel further sanctified and special. It is a distortion, abuse and sickness the Bible speaks of a great deal. Your friend is neither alone, nor original in their ignorance.

Along their own journey, such weak Christians create (or are taught) a "religion"; rather than bother to learn, sound theology. Any religion, blatantly missing the messages of Christ's teachings, typically uses false persecutions and fear to inspire reasons to judge others.

Whether conscious or not; such mislead, wretched actions are usually fueled by the most basic desires to feel special, loved, exclusive, betrothed, "saved"; within an insecure life, which has let them down many times. They now find purpose, (perhaps they even interpret life as having more secure or safe fellowship,) while disposing of certain relationships in order to shore up their previously, and unfortunately persistent, insecure place in this world.

Whenever possible, try to fight the urge to dwell on such judgments; nor allow such ignorance to rob you of even one day of happiness. Their lost causes are simply not worth it! And unfortunately, it would take more years than you or I have, to help them through their ignorance and often intentionally, misinterpreted faith.

Such shallow faiths are hardly a source for the very salvation they claim to seek; and far, FAR, from any message Christ shared with all of us. Nor are their judgments about your own salvation in keeping with anything Christ death represented. Other than the ironic fact, that lucky for them, He also atoned for their ignorance and pathetic, insulting ways of abusing his message and His repeated definitions of love and grace.

It has been a pleasure to know you, since we were small children! Sorry I was not in the area or around, during those times in your life when things were their hardest! Our own early memories together were mainly that of playing around and goofing off! Here's to many more years like those! :-D"

If you ever have some spare time one day; and your not totally sick of my rants at this point?
...I was inspired in January to Blog on some of these same conclusions: http://goo.gl/3yxDK

Additionally, my own humbling journey has also lead to much personal growth; I summarized some of this here: http://goo.gl/wJScr

I have also witnessed my share of men, "dropping the ball", and causing plenty of greif. Some of those lessons I summarized here: http://goo.gl/2abmM

The Truly Faithful Would Never Abuse People At The Hands Of Their Small-minded Religion

Sometimes YOU Bite The Apple, Sometimes IT Bites You!

Yet another friend suffered a loss of all contact information on their iPhone again today! Their posted frustration included, "I hate iTunes!"; given the fact it was actually a recent sync attempt which caused the data/contact information blunder.

I can understand the frustration being directed towards iTunes. Most decidedly when you are managing multiple Apple device and a mixed set of users on a single home PC! Then it gets extremely confusing! When a person finds themselves in this painful, data loss dilemma, the primary disappointment and focus has to be on the odd role Apple originally and mistakenly designed iTunes to have in the ownership of all phones marketed by Apple!

Apple originally designed the iPhone (like the iPod) as a "Companion devices", meaning they expected you to own an additional computer (say, a Mac) in order to use the phone effectively. Apple didn't even launch an "App Store" for the iPhone for another year after the phone was released.

Apple had benefited handsomely over the years with the success of the iPod, when it managed to draw 100's of thousands of rather unwitting, home based, computer users into their stores; who desired to do little more than surf the web and write occasional e-mails.  These visitors became excellent converts to Apple's line of Mac and Macbooks.

It's no wonder Apple expected the iPhone to help establish even more future Mac ownership. As a result, they never saw an issue with creating a device dependant (or companioned) to yet another Apple purchase.  In their eyes, this dependency just made good business sense.  But like a lot of Apple policy's and marketing, it doesn't make good, ultimate, consumer sense.

The only changes we have luckily seen thus far to this "locked down", limited approach; which Apple notoriously controls it's "loyal" consumers through; occurred in large part due to the (ensuing) introduction of the Google Android phone.

Google introduced a device which depended solely on the internet and exploiting Google's own, free cloud from day one.  Unfortunately, Apple has repeatedly been beaten over the decades at its own game, due to its (Steve Jobs) stubborn addiction to control and exclusivity.  Consumers just don't ultimately want such uninvited, and unneeded restriction.

The Android line of products doesn't use (or expect) ANY additional computer. EVERYTHING is automatically backed up "in the cloud".  And automatically restored or transferred to any new device or recovered device the moment you type in your Google cloud credentials. (A simple user name and password.)

Apple has now attempted two failed solutions at solving this initial and typical, flawed, "companion device", philosophy.  To get beyond the companion requirement they first introduced, a $99 per year options called Mobile Me, They failed miserably, and the project is known as one that Steve Jobs directly met with the head developers over, scolding it's usage methods and lack luster popularity. Now iCloud is proving to be Apple's latest misunderstand as to how to utilize the internet seamlessly and offer its customers flexibility and power as well as peace of mind.

iCloud would be much more accurately named iSync, since it offers no real Cloud based features, power or applications to speak of.  Alternatively, it attempts to serve as the go between resources for "syncing" all your devices via the internet.  Luckily, since most iPhone users are newcomers to the Smartphone world, most just don't know what they are missing when it comes to good, powerful, transparent uses of things like connectivity and cloud based storage and applications.

Even old Windows Phone users have seen such advantages executed exceptionally, over 7 years ago; with things like MS Server Enterprise integration.  Here Apple is flush with cash, but they still can't even come close to hitting this nail on the head.  And historically speaking Apple has never been able to maintain ANY services or product lines which utilize and depend on enterprise (much less cloud) level solutions.

A seamless syncing and backup solution which require no thought, additional software, annual subscriptions, activation or learning curve has been a base feature on any and all Android based, Google devices since their introduction to the market. This type of data backup is simply automatically initiated to the Google Cloud, where it can then be accessed, downloaded or edited at will, via any internet browser.

This is one of the many reasons Android phone far out sale iPhones. This and the value comparison of the handset cost (including, required, long-term, contracts) versus hardware offerings. (Not to mention the higher cost of Apps; with much lower percentages paid to the developers; and highly restricted outlets for media, books, music, movie, etc..) However, since Apple iPhones are typically their consumers first smart phone, (most folks owning them previously used a Motorola Razors, at best.) iPhone typically has a very loyal following with these folks new to such convergence. So once such leaps and first steps are taken towards a Smartphone platform, few folks would consider braving or learning yet a 2nd "smart phone", after making their way to their first.

Additionally, Apple sets up their ecosystem in such a way that a user must feel vested towards their branded hardware or risk losing many of the costly purchases they made over the years in order to populate their phone with useful media and software. Such exclusivity and "closed architectures" are often referred to as "walled gardens". Apple is the king of such consumer manipulation. (This is also the contributing reason smart group like MIT and other's are now abandoning their iPhone and iPad app development efforts, in favor of platform agnostic solutions such as HTML5. Read more: http://goo.gl/edhoi )

Attempting to control and restrict consumers is the biggest culprit for Apple's lack of overall PC success in the 90's. Such restricted practices have typically limited Apples ultimate market share to less than 15%, often closer to 8% of an overall sector.

For the folks who have spent over a decade depending on countless generations of "smart phones" and portable, touch screen devices for many years, prior to Apple's re-emergence in the market; we expected a device to work well, be able to multitask, be able to surf the entire web; and from the experience of past smart phone app purchases; avoid any "wall garden" methods of restricting users where related to media purchases, app purchases, available stores, etc...

Most of us long time Smartphone users have seen the competitive advantages of 3rd party app stores like Handago (a.k.a.) Pockectgear (which had over 200,000 apps by 2008, long before Apple store had any presences.) as well as Handspring, Mobihand, etc.. In addition, folks have had many more years of utilizing repositories and resources such as Palm Software Connection, Win NT "Channels", Firefox "Add-Ins", etc., the list goes one.

There are vast legions of folks with broader experiences using portable consumer electronic devices and mobile computing, which create a much more discerning audience than is typical for average retail consumers. Admittedly, their knowledge was typically subsidized by generous company budgets or other business related demands. However, those same average consumers whom have flocked for the moment to Apple, are very fickle; and eventually jump to whichever ship they feel offers them the most choices and the best value. Keeping in mind, a huge percentage of recent Smartphone converts were using simple Motorola and Nokia feature phones just a few years earlier.

The real key to attracting these folks is simply to get the initial price point below any sticker shock the average buyer just won't stomach. This price point for years has been near or below $200-$250. Typically if you ventured beyond this point, many consumers would simply look at a cheaper solution.

In addition, since many devices utilized over the year by veteran smart phone users were not subsidized by large phone carriers; most veteran users understand how to look past the cost of the phones when signing long term contracts, and make a better / real hardware value comparison. When a carrier in turn tacks a HUGE premium, long term service commitment and data charge, (or other steep minimums were related to text and voice,) you know right away, they are trying to position a phone or device for the more naive buyers, in order to gain their acceptance and perceive it as a cheaper and a better value than it is.

This relationship between a company, selling an expensive device, and a carrier willing to subsidize far more than the industry norm, is the primary and brilliant initiation which has lead to Apple most recent success. And in this case ATandT even paid Apple a fraction of its monthly service revenue for every iPhone subscriber (until the iPhone 3G) which had NEVER been offered. Consumers' getting more than they paid for, is the best perception (directly understood or not,) you can create for new and peer pressured customers. ...consumer demand and perceived value of the device eventually went viral.

An odd but predictable opportunity for an innovative device costing, at time of purchase, nothing more than the magical number of $249.00; despite its initial limitations. After all when the 1st phone was introduced, it had no App store, no video recording (only stills), no multitasking, (like an ability to run Pandora while you read a book; or listen to music, in the car while it GPS navigates, etc.), no ability to populate your device with anything, Music, Movies, additional applications, etc., without the use of a full blown computer.  You had literally bought at App Launcher with no convenient way to get new apps, and no real selection of Apps to speak of.  But Apple Fan Boys rarely ask such questions, ...initially.

These handicaps and additional long term cost; as well as large upfront investments, were never even considered by the average consumers and initial fans; all of whom were anxious to use what was being touted as the latest and greatest innovation. Unfortunately, it was also a platform riddled with typical, technical, industry newcomer, launch and platform issues; beyond that of the value shortcomings.

Apple would soon learn how tough the competition in this crowded marketplace was, and how hard it was to make a device which primarily needed to function as that of a phone and a 3rd party app launcher; supporting software written almost entirely by third parties (and Apple is never good at relinquishing control or fairly inviting others to participate and/or profit on their platforms.)

Just the basics of utilizing cellular radio technologies for data transfers and reliable voice communication not to mention well maintained reception have all proven to be hurdles very difficult for a software company, turned consumer electronics firm with no in house experience testing or proving anything more than a few PC models and a music playing device.

Thank goodness for Apple, loyalty, cult following.  Luckily there is a subset of about 8% of the consumer electronics buyers who simply feel Apple can do know wrong with their money.  Many others end up learning the hard way, this is simply not the case. :-(

Sometimes YOU Bite The Apple, Sometimes IT Bites You!

Making Sense of Ill-fated Influences

A friend recently made me aware of this troubling interview with a prominent, Protestant, Southern Baptist, Minister:

http://video.msnbc.msn.com/martin-bashir/47090111/#47090111

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

While it is very difficult to understand such contradictory motivations and confusing direction from a "Christian" leader; it is necessary to use such examples bad "preaching" (and opinions) as catalyst for reviewing the sources of influence we each often allow to guide our own personal, moral and ethical compasses.

Simply depressing to envision folks viewing a pulpit, any pulpit, occupied by such staff members; whom are potentially yielding, unquestioned, "spiritually inspired", influence over their trusting congregations.

But I do know it happens everyday! Incidentally, this occurs while each of us, "bible belt audience members", have a front row seat.  It is more than a bit unnerving to be so close to; and quite frankly, not a show I like having season tickets to.

Such bizarre rhetoric, from folks thought of as "spiritual leaders"; is almost as depressing as witnessing whole News networks (a.k.a. Rupert Murdock owned media outlets) devoted to simular, unfounded, false inspirations; while effectively and embarrassingly, influencing droves of naive viewers, day after day, for years at a time.

All in the name of commanding repeat, titillated, viewership; so Gillett can sale some more razors! We are nothing in this country if not exceptional consumers!  Moreover, such shallow influences are evidence that our principles can truly be compromised for the oddest of reasons.

Hatred, fear and misdirected anger are powerful, yet shameful, emotions. Pride and insecurities are evidently the sneaky resources we each depend on to make sense of such ill-fated influences.

... It's embarrassing. ... humbling. Cause for concern.
"Concern", which we can't afford to also convert to fear and insecurity.
We must just continue to keep our grace in check, along with any growing wisdom we can muster.

Thank you friends, for your continued exceptional stewardship, influence and steadfast encouragement. :-)

Making Sense of Ill-fated Influences

A Shame The Cold Realities of Contempt Towards A Marital Partner, Can't Just Be Left To The Toiling Of Hollywood Screenplays

Pride and the difficulty of swallowing it, long before it cost us huge losses, is often one of the most trying challenges in all of our lives!  Whereas humility, and the strength and liberation which comes from it's embrace, is an opportune gift for those whom discover it.

I can almost instantly remember and group any of those individuals whom I've been close to in my life, which were either raised to believe "apologizing is a strength"; versus those who evidently thought of such expressions or direct apologetic statements "as a weakness"; given the fact, you never once heard a repentent thought EVER leave the latter's lips.

Life is unfortunately far to short to spend prolonged time involved, and/or partnered, with those who find apologies as acts of inferiority and weakness.  We all should know to avoid such deranged people, since we have all (admittedly or not,) seen ourselves as being and doing wrong, countless times in each of our own lives.

Rob Reiner's 1999 movie, "The Story of Us", is always a personal gut wrencher for me, where related to "crow swallowing", or lack there of depicted by the staring couple within the movie; and the burdens of their perpetual build-ups of contempt, while voluntary tong-bitting and/or lashings abound.  The resulting, unrepentant walls of resentment and discontent, ultimately appear to overwhelm the film's, comprehensive, depiction of courtship and marriage; just as such abuses and neglect will (and do,) any of our own relationships.

Bruce Willis and Michelle Pfeiffer, under Mr. Reiner's direction, end up doing the most unexpected job of condensing the age old process of recklessly deteriorating one's entire marriage; however, their story (without giving the endgin away,) crescendos with a rather rare, absolutely compelling, heart-felt speech.  It is befittingly given towards the end of this movie's journey; and it probably deserved an Academy Award nomination for it's emotional and gut wrenching humility.

Humility after all, is the only liberator for pride full, resentful, contemptuous, painful living.  Oh, and the healing properties of those who found strength in apologizing and those who loved generously enough to truly forgive.

(Side note: Not everyone, (nor many critics) like the movie The Story of Us; however, even if you don't like it, most everyone will take something from it.)

A Shame The Cold Realities of Contempt Towards A Marital Partner, Can't Just Be Left To The Toiling Of Hollywood Screenplays

A Musket Armed Private Militia, Versus A 21st Century Drone! Fact or Fiction?

I see this same image and quote floating around the political circles and social networks from time to time, and I just can't seem to relate to or understand the attraction?? Honestly, it seems sort of a moot, dated, point (or quote) to me, given todays modern version of armament and multi-billion dollar, anual, military budgets.

"A free people ought not only be armed and disciplined, but they should also have sufficient arms and ammunition to maintain a status of independence from any who might attempt to abuse them, which would include their own government." - George Washington

I'm just not sure (or motivated by the idea that,) any single individual or privatized militia could really compete with a modern day Super Power.

As a result, I find it odd so many Americans seem to be attracted to these fantasies, or find themselves so motivated by the 2nd amendment, as if their patriotism depends on it?? What am I missing??

I guess the idea that we could each grab up a musket and head out the door and accomplish something or form a movement or rebellion is a fun idea for some; I just don't know that it is very realistic, and certainly not very current or modern.

Seems to me their passion and the real original points made by past leaders on this topic, 200 years ago; while trying to prevent taxation without representation, or renegade militias; are all kind of lost ideals in this day and age. How after all, would such ideals still have any real relevance??

None of us after all could do much about a laser guided, full armed, drone, 30,000 feet above our home or compound; or torch lit, nighttime, musket march. That drone after all, also has an infrared, live, night vision, feed, back to the base. A simple phone call would blow out any mob's lit torches.

Interesting article on some of the legal specifics surrounding the courts current position on the 2nd amendment: http://law2.umkc.edu/faculty/projects/ftrials/conlaw/beararms.htm

A Musket Armed Private Militia, Versus A 21st Century Drone! Fact or Fiction?

Striving for last! The U.S. Educational System Is Confidently Living In The Past!

A complete shame telecommuting for education (minus the telepresence robots) isn't taken more seriously in all areas of education. Would / could serve countless students wonderfully, who live far away from any respectable education opportunities.

Texas's curriculum and its' results now rank 40 out of 50! In a country which ranks 25th overall!!  Simple HORRIBLE and shameful!!

So why shouldn't a student who lives down in Mc Allen, Texas, be able to telecommute to a classroom in HPS (Highland Park), Dallas, Texas?  The simple answer, bureaucracy, misappropriations and pathetic leadership!

At the very least, any 21st century, private school should eagerly offer live broadcast and access to it's classrooms, for those enrollees wishing to attend from anywhere they might live. It is certainly an non-issue technologically to hold each student accountable for their attendance and participation.

The first company I started in the mid 90's, couldn't have existed without the connectivity the Internet provided to our California based software developers and hardware support. That was 18 YEARS AGO! How in the world do we expect our students to understand how small this world has become and how to productively utilize it's connectivity and resulting opportunities if our classrooms still function within a 1950's method of operation?!?

Our curriculum and methodologies as irrelevant and dated as our methods of delivery and dissemination. All this talk of "restoring America" is hog wash, as long as continued, failed, misappropriated and mismanaged methods continue to be the norm insofar as to the way we educate our students.

There is no future in an environment ranking at the BOTTOM of what counts!!  We now live in a world were consumerism is more defining as to the state-of-the-art than are our teachers.

This is why folks actually think items like the iPhone are the greatest innovation they have seen or been exposed to.  Such ignorance and naivety is embarrassing! It is pathetic, and it is fast (exponentially) defining our countries future and potential failure!

Avoiding such poor decision making is all any competing countries need do! The games and methods have changed! If we don't, we loose!

Striving for last! The U.S. Educational System Is Confidently Living In The Past!

The Best Italian Itineraries, are ANY Italian Itinerary

I wrote these entries as an addendum to a web page I prepared for family and friends accompanying us on our destination wedding in the fall of 2011, to help prepare certain travel expectations, in hopes everyone arrives relaxed and anxious in a "good way". 

I think you'll find your trip planning a breeze, even if this is their first European adventure. :-) ...I promise, it will be a GREAT one!

Once your done reading these bits and pieces of trivia & information, head over to our "Itinerary Suggestions"; to learn more about our own plans for the week; and view more specific details, pertaining to other popular regional attractions. - M.H.

:: The Best Italian Itineraries, are ANY Italian itinerary ::

Keep your plans simple... This is a very small country, compared to the U.S.; this country is no bigger than one of our own medium sized states. So don't fret a complicated "game plan".

The Big Picture:
An hour and a half (1-1/2) train ride will take you clear across one region of the country; from one major city to the next. (And no, these are not "Bullet Trains".) A three (3) hours train ride will take you from Northern Italy to central Italy; and another, from Central Italy to Southern. Therefor, you will never likely travel further in one day than it would take you to drive from Dallas to Austin; and those occasion will be rare.

In most cases your day will simply consist of you and your fellow travelers enjoying which ever wonderful and historic city, you have chosen to spend several days in. And during those stays you will likely just be walking the beautiful sidewalks, intentionally visiting a historic site or two, enjoying a wonderful meal, and from time to time visiting a lovely little local store.

Speaking the Language:
Knowing Italian is never a necessity when visiting this fine country. All major attractions and cities abound with staffs and folks which also speak English. This is a country which earns over 48 billion dollars in tourism revenue a year. It is the fifth most visited country in the world, and yet it is no bigger than the state of Arizona! The locals are very, VERY use to guest. Don't ever concern yourself with knowing their language, unless you plan on becoming an Expatriate. In which case, please ask me to visit often! ;-)

Lay of the land:
Like most Medium sized States in the U.S., there are only a hand full of major cities in Italy. To the North West there is Milan. To the North East there is Venice. In the North Central Region there is Florence; the South Central Region has Rome. Further to the South is Naples. And even further South still is the Island of Capri and the beautiful cliff-side city of Sorrento; not to mention the amazing, frozen in time, ancient, excavated city of Pompeii.

Northern Italy is the wealthiest most prosperous Italian region. The people are educated and cultured. They are use to millions of visitors a year, enjoying their beautiful geography and exceptional attractions, restaurants and shopping.

Perfect Timing:
We have purposely chosen to visit and enjoy this country at a time which is not considered a "peak travel season". Traveling to Italy during the Fall, not only reduces many of the flight and lodging expenses, but also allows us to avoid heavy crowds and better enjoy our guest and the many attractions we hope to visit with them.

This time of the year is a better use of all of our time and money; and yet the weather will be at the country's most pleasant throughout our entire stay. Italy has VERY hot summers; whereas we will be enjoying it's absolutely beautiful fall weather; which will be in the mid 70's during the day and lower 60's at night. (Bring a good jacket, or light layers for your evenings out.)

Getting Around:
As far as transportation is concerned once you have arrived; I have personally driven over 30 days in total across the Italian country side and throughout all of it's major cities during my various visits. I don't know what I was thinking the first several times I toured the country using my own, personal, rent car? But NO MORE! :-) I have learned the hard way! So from now on, I depend almost solely on the trains; which are by far, the best, most cost effective, safest and virtually stress free way to vacation throughout Europe.

Texans like to drive cars everywhere they go. Italians like to run over any visiting Texan's, who thought they needed to rent a car while vacationing there. Unless "aggressive, freestyle driving" is your middle name; stick to using the incredible, European Train System, as your mode of transportation during your entire visit to any and all regions of Italy and Europe. (The only exceptions being a few ferry rides across Lake Como, or out to the Island of Capri if you head that far South.)

:: THE FINE PRINT ::

General Touring Info:
- Serious crime is rare, however pickpockets and purse-snatchers are common in large cities. Just keep things hidden and locked; and by hidden, I don't mean in a fanny pack.
- Not all places allow picture taking. Museums, especially, often retain sole rights to photograph their works. Flash photography is especially frowned upon as being disruptive.
- Public toilets are available only in a few small towns. You can always use the toilet in a public bar however ( they have to give you access by law ).
- Banks are open weekdays 8:30 am to 1:30 pm and sometimes for an hour in the afternoon. (However, with prevalent ATMs, it is doubtful you will ever need a bank.)
- Most churches are open from early morning until noon, when they close for three to four hours before reopening again, and close at 6 pm. A few major churches, such as St. Peter's in Rome, are open all day.
- Many museums are closed one day a week, often on Monday.

Dress Codes:
- Italy may be very tourist-friendly and known for fashion, but it is generally considered rude to walk around town in beach attire, short shorts, and/or skimpy outfits. Many historic and certainly religious attractions, will not allow visitors in shorts, or lady's in tank tops.

Dining:
- Italian tap water is sometimes heavily chlorinated, so it is best to drink bottled water. Also mineral water is available in all flavors: gassata (bubbly or "with gas"), naturale (non-bubbly), and semi-gassata like Ferrarelle (somewhere in the between).
- Italians usually take their food as it is listed, seldom making special requests, such as "hold the mayo."
- Spaghetti, virtually the national food of Italy, should be eaten with a fork rolled against the dish. Use a spoon if you must, but cutting your food up into little pieces is considered tacky.
- Cappuccino and 'cornetto' is the standard breakfast in Italy - forget sausages and eggs, and etc .
- Don't wait for the check, you must ask for it.
- Tipping is usually done with cash; usually 'servizio' is included but a small tip is always appreciated.
- Nice sit-down restaurants usually expect one to order two courses, not counting dessert.
- If you want a quick bite, stop at a pizzeria.
- Breakfast is usually served from 7-10:30 am, lunch from 12:30-2:30 pm, and dinner from 7:30-10 pm. Peak lunch and dinner hours are 1 and 9 pm, respectively.
- If you get traveler's diarrhea, don't necessarily blame it on unsanitary conditions. Olive oil and wine are heavily used in Italian cuisine, and as natural laxatives, can cause problems for those with sensitive stomachs.

Just in Case:
- If there is an emergency, dial 113 or 112. They are the Italian equivalent of America's 911 or UK's 999. (But don't live in or travel with fear; nor with persistent thoughts of requiring such info, life is way to short!)

:: That's Amore ::

You have nothing to fear about taking a trip to Europe, but fear itself. :-)
Enjoy yourself, and do your best to soak it all in! Italy is an absolutely wonderful place to stop and smell the coffee, or cappuccino!

The Best Italian Itineraries, are ANY Italian Itinerary