Christmas is over, and now I have to go back to work—unfortunately, because I was hired as a laborer.
In the morning I struggle to get out of bed. I go to the kitchen and eat something soft, a slice of panettone with raisins, and drink a cup of tea. I drink as much as I want, then I leave the house. Outside, it's still dark.
I take the bus and the subway, and then I arrive at work. Some people get there early, others come in around eight-thirty.
I work reluctantly because I'd rather do something else. They call me to pre-pack instruments, and then they're put in boxes with padding and iron hooks are hammered on. We ship reagents—the chemicals needed for urine analysis. I don't know what will happen in this year that's starting. I just hope we stay friends and get to see each other when we can. I've heard my friends have children to support, raising them in the friendships we share through Fede e Luce. I'm happy to be in the little house with the people I know, because by now we're bound together as a community. With everyone else, too, there has to be a good relationship—it's essential for a community that grows in every way.
I'd like to have a role. I already write for my community and keep a record of what happens. The best Fede e Luce events are the retreats, where we're comfortable together. I love it when we do activities. I know the songs, and if I feel like it, I sing them.
At Christmas things feel good because it's a beautiful tradition—we honor everyone and I like to leave the house and unplug. If it works out, I'm happy. But then, sadly, we go back home. I know how to dig in the garden, but you need strength or I get tired right away. And we share what the earth gives us, depending on what there is.