Home for the Holidays: Reflections on “Verso l’Alto”
This Christmas, I’m heading back to my old neighborhood, a place that holds a special place in my heart. As I drive through familiar streets, I’m reminded of my time at BPGF — the elementary school where I was part of the first graduating class. Being back here brings a wave of nostalgia and an opportunity to reflect on the lessons and values that shaped me during those formative years. One phrase has been echoing in my mind recently: “Verso l’alto.”
For those unfamiliar, “Verso l’alto” is closely associated with Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati. The phrase, which translates to “toward the top” in Italian, carries a profound meaning that resonates deeply during this reflective time of year. It’s common to see these words accompanying an iconic photograph of Pier Giorgio climbing a mountain, gazing upwards with determination.
What makes this phrase even more special is its origin. Pier Giorgio himself wrote “Verso l’alto” on the back of that very photo, taken on June 7, 1925, during what would unknowingly be his final climb. Just one month later, his life was cut short at the age of 24. Though never intended as his personal motto, the phrase has since become a symbol of his life and legacy — a life dedicated to constant striving, not just toward physical peaks but toward the summit of eternal life.
For those of us who find inspiration in his story, “Verso l’alto” is more than just a phrase; it’s a call to action. It reminds us to aim higher in our own lives — to pursue our goals, embrace challenges, and reach for something greater than ourselves. Whether it’s through acts of kindness, personal growth, or spiritual reflection, the phrase encourages us to keep climbing, no matter how steep the path may seem.
As I revisit the neighborhood where my journey began, I’m filled with gratitude for the lessons learned and the people who helped me along the way. This Christmas, let’s all take a moment to reflect on what “Verso l’alto” might mean in our own lives. How can we strive toward our own “top”? How can we uplift others in the process?
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a heartfelt invitation to keep climbing, toward the top.
