famous last words...

In the Spring of 2005, I went to Italy for Duquesne University's study abroad program for 3 months.  It was an experience unlike any other.  And it would be the last time (for a long time) that I had no care of money inflows/outflows.  We were in a different country, so we couldn't earn any money AND if you wanted to go to Switzerland for the weekend, you can always find a way to justify it.

We were 60 kids packed in a convent in the town of Boccea.  You wouldn't believe how well you get to know people when you are in a country that you can't really communicate with the outside world due to the language barrier.  I met some great friends along the way.

It was always interesting to hear people's stories you meet in the different countries.  Many times you share some stories, take a picture, and keep on moving - knowing you will never see them again. 

One night at a bar in downtown Rome, I started talking to an Italian boxer.  I think his name was Alonzo Morning or something.  He couldn't speak too much English, but at 1am, nobody really could.  We started discussing my childhood hero, Rocky Marciano, an old boxer from long ago.  After a couple drinks, you would have thought we were old bowling friends.

Before he left, I quoted one of my favorite movies Point Break, by saying "I'll see ya in the Next World Alonzo" 

Until recently, I thought it was just a humorous way to say arrivederci to someone.  But now, with the upcoming ability to have a business join GoNextWord.com online on their own...his attendance in the Next World is not too far fetched.

Now,  I say it as a statement of fact.


Dear reader,

I'll see you in the Next World.

Sincerely, 

-Mike