Certain people are so overtly genuine, so kind and honest in their presentation of self, that you are instantly safe in their presence. Their lack of self doubt projects itself into you and you are forced to be as unapologetic and real as they are.

Elena has no facade. She speaks what’s on her mind, in an earnest and intelligent way. She doesn’t withhold her opinion, in a proud, yet humble way. She doesn’t expect you to agree or respond, she acts and feels, and allows those around her to do the same. She allows those to react to her and also engage her, remaining consistent on both ends. It would be hard not to trust her, as her intentions could never be seen as malicious, self interested, or judgmental. It comes down to a certain self awareness and self assurance that she embodies at her core.

In Brussels, I got to stay with Elena, my once older sister from Rome. Her Italian accent hasn’t changed. It carries the same stark wavelengths of dramatic high and low pitched claims. Maybe it’s all the more comforting because my 14 year old self once looked to the ideas entwined in that accent for guidance. Elena’s self deprecating humor allows her to be even more funny when she chooses to slightly roast those around her.