Although there are daily headlines about Italy’s severe economic crisis, that is often easily (and conveniently) overlooked in our relatively privileged neighborhood of Genoa. However, the staggering unemployment rate -- 42% among youth and nearly 13% overall -- was readily apparent this week, when our local café/bar/gelateria had an opening for a server. The line of applicants stretched down the block.
That didn't deter our following through on a promised afternoon gelato for the girls, and it offered a “teachable moment” when we explained why the crowd was gathered. Adding a topping of reality also didn’t deter their enjoyment of their treats, but it did offer a valuable and wider perspective on life here.
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