“Travel transforms us from observers into storytellers,” said Ibn Battuta, and Italy has done just that for Esther Law. But beyond the monuments and streets, this journey has altered something deeper within her. Law’s travels are not just about exploring places; they are about uncovering the stories that transform the soul.
A call to embrace beauty, faith, lessons
As promised in my previous story, I will take you on a journey to explore 45 countries through the inspiring travels of Esther Law.
This week, we explore the treasures of Italy, beginning with the awe-inspiring Vatican City.
Through her story, Law offers us more than a mere journey through Italy; it’s a journey into Catholic interconnectedness, a call to embrace the beauty, faith, and lessons life has to offer.
It’s about stepping beyond the sights and immersing ourselves in the shared experiences of humanity that cross borders and time.
So, take your seat, buckle up, and let’s embark on a spiritual and cultural adventure with Law, discovering how the stories of the past continue to inspire us to build a brighter future.
As Law aptly quotes, “Travel — an experience that transforms one from a mere observer into a storyteller,” echoing the wisdom of renowned explorer Ibn Battuta.
She considers herself truly blessed to be a traveller, even in her own humble ways.
“It’s not just about the places I visit, but the transformations I undergo as I step into each new world. Each place shapes me, moulds me and calls me to deeper introspection,” she said.
First stop? Italy. The Vatican City, especially.
Her journey through Italy has been a heartfelt tapestry of memories, each more meaningful than the last. The cultural connections she forged, the historical stories she unearthed, and the moments of grace she experienced have left an indelible mark on her spirit.
Her first visit in 2006, for a cancer conference that spanned Rome, Venice, and Trieste, planted the seeds of curiosity. Those seeds grew into her 2023 return to the Vatican City, where she immersed herself in the spiritual allure of St. Peter’s Basilica and the vibrant essence of Turin.
Italy, with its rich historical narrative, showcases cities that each narrates tales of yesteryears. Rome, the Eternal City, mesmerises with its ancient ruins; Venice enchants with its dreamy canals; Trieste reflects a fascinating blend of Italian, Slavic, and Austrian influences, while Turin stands tall, embodying resilience through its baroque architecture.
St. Peter’s Basilica: A sacred moment
One of the most profound moments of her trip came at Vatican City. Standing beneath the awe-inspiring dome of St. Peter’s Basilica, Law felt enveloped by centuries of spirituality and history. It was as though the weight of the past gently pressed against her heart, reminding her of the immense significance of this place.
Attending the Holy Mass celebrated by Pope Francis during the 7th World Day of the Poor on November 19, 2023, was a deeply transformative experience. In that sacred space, surrounded by people from every corner of the globe, she found herself contemplating poverty, unity, and the lessons of empathy and service. The theme of the celebration, “Do not turn your gaze away from the poor person” (Tobit 4:7), resonated deeply with her.
After the Mass, Pope Francis’ words lingered in her mind. His call to consider how we use our talents, not for personal gain, but for the benefit of others, struck her to the core. The parable of the talents he spoke of was not just about material wealth, but about how we contribute to the world with the gifts we’ve been given.
She often reflects on her own life in this context. “Am I truly using my talents to alleviate suffering, or am I holding back, hesitant to invest in others?” she asked herself. It’s a sobering thought, realising how easy it is to sit on one’s blessings out of fear or complacency.
But Pope Francis’ message went beyond wealth — it challenged her to consider the spiritual riches she possesses. In a world so focused on material success, it was a reminder that true wealth lies in the ability to love, share, and uplift those around us. This resonates with today’s corporate social responsibility movement, where businesses are called not just to profit, but to contribute to the common good.
Travelling through Italy, particularly to the heart of Christianity in Vatican City, reminded her of her role in this interconnected world. We are all called to step outside our comfort zones and serve, not just through grand gestures, but through every small act of kindness — whether it’s listening to someone, volunteering, or supporting causes that elevate the marginalised.
Michelangelo’s La Pietà: The beauty of vulnerability
While the Basilica overwhelmed her with spiritual grandeur, another masterpiece, Michelangelo’s La Pietà, offered a different kind of spiritual reflection — one of vulnerability and grace.
Experiencing the masterpiece was profoundly moving. The marble sculpture of Mary, cradling the body of Christ in tender grief, evoked an emotional response that transcended time and space. For Law, it was more than just art; it was a powerful reminder of the beauty in vulnerability, the shared human experience of loss, and the grace that emerges from it.
“It reminded me of the struggles I faced in my own life and how, just as Christ was supported in his suffering, we, too, are called to bear one another’s burdens. It’s a universal truth that unites us across cultures, backgrounds, and faiths: in our vulnerability, we find strength, and in our pain, we find compassion,” she shared.
Clementine Chapel: A sacred reflection
Attending Mass in the Clementine Chapel on November 12, 2023, was another deeply enriching experience. Standing in the chapel beneath St. Peter’s Basilica, she felt a profound sense of connection to history and faith. The chapel, with its timeless walls and sacred ambiance, invited her to reflect on the legacy of love, sacrifice, and devotion.
As she stood before the site where St. Peter was crucified, she was filled with gratitude and awe. Knowing that she was in the very place where this foundational figure of Christianity gave his life for his faith was a humbling experience. In that moment, she thought about St. Peter’s transformation — from fisherman to the first pope — and the depth of faith and courage it must have taken.
With just a small gathering of fellow pilgrims and their priest, Father Philip, the Mass felt incredibly intimate. It was a moment that will stay with her forever.
Travelling through Italy, especially Vatican City, was more than just an exploration of history — it was a call to deeper reflection, to considering how we can all contribute to a more compassionate, loving world.
Through the sacred places she visited, Law was reminded that every journey, whether physical or spiritual, is an opportunity to expand our perspectives and to deepen our understanding of humanity, faith, and the interconnectedness of all people.
She looks forward to sharing more of these stories, as she continues to explore the world and uncover the histories waiting to be discovered. In the process, she reminds us of the beauty and power of human connection, transcending borders and uniting us in our shared human journey.
