We abandoned our land, feeling as if it had abandoned us first. In truth, it was our policies and attitudes that drove us to seek progress and modernity elsewhere.
As value metrics inevitably shift from the individual to something larger, perhaps even sacred like the concept of family, the beauties offered by our land—its history, nature, and heritage—will once again come into vogue.
This is more of a prayer than a prediction. To believe in something is to act as if your beliefs will materialize through your efforts and your faith itself. This has always been my mantra. Though often penalized for this behaviour, I cannot help myself; I believe what I believe.
As the population slowly declines, with deaths outnumbering births, vast lands and estates will come onto the market. Those who inherited them will likely seek an exit, facing tough choices and contending with price anchoring and delusions such as, "It cost X years ago, so today it should be worth much more." This is a flawed statement, especially in the current situation. “Have you noticed how many 'for sale' signs are out there, and how long they stay up? Are you considering how much is required to fix the old building while you could just buy the newbuild down the road?” Think about it.
Unless a wave of wealthy immigrants decides to settle here with their families, I believe it will take a few years for things to return to "normal", whatever that may be.
We are witnessing a bit of brain repatriation, as wars occurring just next door make you want to stay closer to those you perceive as weak and in need of your help during normal times—imagine in times of war.
Family bonds that have been severed for various reasons are metaphorically on the operating table, awaiting the brave surgeon who will make the first cut and inflict temporary damage, necessary to address the disease that has been festering inside the patient for too long.
Meanwhile, the world we live in is increasingly plagued by conflicts, elements that I believe will act as an accelerant for the changes our children and us will face first-hand.
We might even see something akin to Baby Boomers 2.0—who knows. I can only hope to have the challenge of misnaming my numerous grandchildren!
As an Italian father who left and found a new home in England, while my former home succumbed to weak leadership and selfishness, returning, even for a while, feels like my duty.
After all, home is not a place but a feeling.
Those who are more attached to material possessions than to their own kin are like vampires who, despite their numerous supernatural powers, still require an invitation to enter that magical place we call home, where we cultivate garlic and make crucifixes.