Gli Italiani sono più apprezzati all’estero che a casa propria.

One of the reasons why Italians are more tolerant towards foreigners is also because they are people who have all the way in the course of history been  migrating to places and should I say everywhere around the nooks and corners of the entire world.

So, who would understand an immigrant better if not those who have gone and are still going through the same process of moving from places to places? There is just nowhere you can go around this world that hasn’t got it’s Italian immigrant. These immigrants in high percentage are the ‘‘ambassadors’’ of the country abroad. They are the ones that carry the image of Italy abroad. They are the ones that give identity to the country and this  is done through several means, such as fashion designing, engineering, architecture, cuisine and all that long list of ‘‘Made in Italy’’ pride. Italian products are one of the most appreciated all over,  especially in the world or luxury. The best trade marks are mostly Italians right from Ferrari to Lanborghini, from De Cecco pasta to Gucci bags and shoes, from Renzo Piano’s creative works to Slow food invented by Carlo Petrini  and the list is so long that I may fill up this page with names and brands made in Italy.

The question is, why do most Italians have to move out of their country to be able to bring the best out of themselves. Or should I say, why are other countries able to bring the best out of the Italians while their beloved country does not seem to notice their creative and dedicated skills? Does it depend on the complexity of the Italian too brainy and too theoretical system compared to the more practical and simple way of reaching the same goal? Does it depend on the theory that says that an immigrant applies double energy and double force to obtain his or her objectives thus becoming positively hard headed and aggressive in reaching the goal? What ever the answer is, the Italians do it better.

It’s a shame the country doesn’t create structures and ideas for the youths. Our youths are fascinated by other EU cities such as Berlin and London. The enthusiasm they show when they visit these two cities amongst others is contagious. That is a red flag that shows us that there are some activities and events missing in our country. They youths should be give the same chances and attention their counterparts have in other European cities, if this is done then we may be able to keep our brains from draining away.

But if you think of it deeply, it is just that we want what the other have. I have met several Britons serving in Jazz cafes and restaurants in Rome and Milan. I have seen several German youths and French youths helping out in hotels and libraries in Italy. And some give their mother tongue language teaching provided they are able to stay longer in Italy. And they are very proud of staying and working here in Italy as a sort of gap year or a  kind of Sabbatical. Though we are not talking about the half a million of Italians who have now invaded London prompting the Italians Embassy to open up a proper ‘‘prima accoglienza’’ office to help the youths orient themselves in the jungle of this world without borders.

How and when are Italians going to be appreciated in their own land?

Enjoy!