Day 1: Roma

Stillness. It exists at the place where night sky meets morning. The blackest navy turning deep indigo before even the birds make an appearance. You think it should be scary -- the moment when the sun is farthest from you. But then it shifts. The light rises up from the earth as the stars exit, taking their cue.

It builds, that potential energy. Before you know it you're awash in church bells and pigeon flutters. Creaking shutters and distant train brakes. Baptized by the sounds of a brand new day. And this one has nothing to fear.