Il Violino Magico: Busker Riccardo Morsilli in Rome

My disclaimer for this post is that it happened while Astrid and I were on our Grand Tour of Italy in April.  However, because it was not technically part of the tour, I'm making a special post on its own...because, to be honest, it's my birthday.  :)

And because this was the most soulful "eternalized moment" of the entire trip for me!

You may remember that we had two days in Rome on the tour, first visiting "Classical Rome" and then, the second day, on our own away from the group to explore what we wanted. Since I had been to Rome twice before, I had a feel for what I wanted Astrid to see for her first time.

After standing in line for 45 minutes to visit St. Peter's Cathedral (for only 30 minutes inside), we went off towards the Castel SantÁngelo en route to Piazza Navona.

Those of you who've been to Rome will recognize the castle, from 123 AD.

(It was also in Angels and Demons, remember?)

Almost at mid-point in the above image, at the base of the castle, we saw him:

Riccardo Morsilli, from Il Violino Magico (Facebook page).

See the sign in his violin case (middle image)? It says (in both Italian and English):

"The secret of happiness is freedom; the secret of freedom is courage."

You can hear more on his Facebook page, of course, but he clearly knows how to play the violin!

So, why the stilettos (sometimes also red)!!

I had a back-n-forth with Riccardo once we returned home.
I can't say I know much more than that day in Rome, except that I did find out this:
He's a strong advocate against violence to women.

If we want to know anything more, he is simply willing to let us wonder.
And because of that mystery...with unanswered questions...he leaves us in tears.

I have seldom been more touched by anything,
which is why I gift this experience to me again, on this my birthday.

A second blessing....