Thanks to Alessandra Gnudi who has helped us prepare a translation of the following passage from NATA PER AMARE by Silvia Cavallini, sister of NA patient Frederica. The book, which was mentioned in our last issue of NA News, has been published in Italy. Silvia said she hopes "that people who read this understand that in the hard moments, even if it isn't simple, the important thing is never give up." Authored by Silvia, the book is told in the voice of Federica and gives insights into her life with NA.
From NATA PER AMARE:
"From a careful analysis of my character I have understood that my strength, as well as my private nature, are often a shield to protect my frailty.
"It is not easy to accept a destiny of suffering but I am trying hard and praying helps me a bit: I understood that you should not pray only to ask for a miracle with the capital M, that could always happen even though it is an exceptional event, but also to thank for the small miracles of every day life that, because of the fast pace of our times, are often overlooked. I refer to a friendly look, not a pitiful one, to the union of family members who together face difficulties and life challenges and are still able to smile; these are simple gestures which warm the heart.
"Because of my situation, many times I have reflected about my life and I have come to the conclusion that, apart from my illness, the best and worst things that happened to me have something in common: love meant not only as a feeling towards the “other half of the apple” but also as an openness to the others, to all the people, no matter who they are, that we meet on our life journey.
From negative experiences I have understood how important is to learn how to love, otherwise our heart will be empty; moreover, I am gaining the awareness that, even if my journey will be a difficult climb, I was also born to love and I have to make the most of this quality which goes beyond my physical limits."
