Capitolo Uno: Lo Sguardo

da Michael Lamonaca

L’aria a Ragusa, anche nel languido calore di un pomeriggio di luglio del 1863, portava il distinto profumo di sale e terra cotta dal sole, una fragranza che Donatina Cabrera conosceva intimamente ma che raramente inalava veramente. Dai confini lussuosi e foderati di velluto della carrozza di famiglia, il mondo esterno era una sfocatura di pietra baciata dal sole e il lampo occasionale di vibranti buganvillee. La sua governante, la Signora Elena, continuava a borbottare sulla corretta condotta per le giovani donne di qualità, ma lo sguardo di Donatina, come sempre, si spingeva oltre il vetro lucido.

Erano in viaggio per consegnare un cesto di biancheria all’orfanotrofio locale, un atto di carità doveroso orchestrato da sua madre, la Contessa Cabrera. Donatina conosceva bene il rito: una breve e cortese apparizione, qualche benedizione sussurrata, e poi di nuovo verso le fresche e ombreggiate sale di Villa Cabrera, in cima alla collina che dominava la città. Era una vita di gabbie dorate, pensava spesso, anche se non osava esprimere un sentimento così ribelle.

Oggi, tuttavia, un peculiare fremito di anticipazione si agitava in lei. Aveva sentito sussurri dal personale di cucina, frammenti di conversazioni su un giovane uomo nuovo, incredibilmente forte, che aveva intrapreso il compito arduo di riparare l’antica diga vicino al vecchio quartiere dei pescatori. Un uomo, dicevano, con occhi come la parte più profonda del Mediterraneo e mani che potevano scolpire la pietra con la stessa facilità con cui uno scultore modella l’argilla. Donatina, le cui giornate erano riempite di ricamo, lezioni di pianoforte e noiose visite sociali, si ritrovò affascinata dalla sola idea di un uomo così. Era una creatura della terra, del lavoro onesto, completamente diverso dai galletti imbellettati e incipriati che frequentavano il salotto della sua famiglia.

Mentre la carrozza sobbalzava passando per la vivace piazza del mercato, dove le grida dei venditori si mescolavano al belato delle capre, Donatina si strinse al finestrino. L’odore di pesce fresco e fichi maturi sopraffece momentaneamente il profumo stantio della carrozza. I suoi occhi scandagliarono la strada assolata, oltre le donne che contrattavano i prezzi e i bambini che inseguivano galline randagie.

Poi lo vide.

Stava vicino alla diga in rovina, di spalle alla carrozza, i muscoli che si tendevano sotto una semplice camicia di lino intrisa di sudore. Maneggiava un pesante martello con una grazia quasi brutale, scheggiando un pezzo di roccia ostinato. Il sole catturava le onde scure dei suoi capelli, trasformandole in ossidiana, ed evidenziava la linea forte della sua mascella. Era completamente assorto, una forza della natura contro l’antica pietra, ignaro del mondo oltre il suo lavoro.

Donatina sentì una scossa, una sensazione simile a un fulmine che colpisce uno stagno immobile. Era ancora più magnifico di quanto i sussurri avessero descritto. La sua presenza cruda e indomita era un netto contrasto con la sua esistenza meticolosamente ordinata. Guardò, ipnotizzata, mentre lui si fermava, asciugandosi il sudore dalla fronte con il dorso della mano, il suo profilo momentaneamente girato verso di lei. I suoi occhi, in effetti, erano scuri e intensi, ma contenevano una stanchezza, un orgoglio profondo, e qualcos’altro… un lampo di risentimento mentre scrutavano l’opulenta carrozza della sua famiglia. Non vedeva lei; vedeva ciò che lei rappresentava.

Una strana mescolanza di fascino e una fitta di delusione si stabilì nel petto di Donatina. Non l’aveva notata affatto, non veramente. Vedeva solo il simbolo della classe che probabilmente disprezzava. Una sfida, allora. Una sfida molto intrigante. Lei, Donatina Cabrera, lo avrebbe fatto vedere. E aveva qualche idea su come iniziare.

La mattina seguente, Donatina mise in moto il suo piano. Convinse la Signora Elena che una passeggiata mattutina nella parte bassa della città, vicino agli antichi uliveti, sarebbe stata eccellente per la sua salute. Era un percorso che, per coincidenza, li avrebbe portati oltre la diga dove lavorava il bel lavoratore. Scelse un abito di mussola azzurro pallido, ingannevolmente semplice, ma disegnato per ondeggiare ad ogni brezza, accennando alla figura sottostante. Un cappello a tesa larga, adornato con un unico, delicato fiore di seta, le incorniciava il viso, permettendo giusto l’ombra sufficiente per esaltare il mistero dei suoi occhi.

“Donatina, fa’ attenzione a dove metti i piedi,” ammonì la Signora Elena, con la voce venata dalla sua solita ansia mentre affrontavano i ciottoli irregolari, un netto contrasto con i sentieri levigati dei giardini della villa.

Donatina si limitò a sorridere, lo sguardo fisso sul lontano luccichio della luce solare sulla pietra. Mentre si avvicinavano alla diga, lo vide. Michele. Era lì, proprio come aveva sperato, spostando grandi pietre con una forza senza sforzo che faceva sembrare gli altri lavoratori dei bambini. Indossava la stessa semplice camicia di lino, ora ancora più macchiata di polvere e sudore.

Questo era il suo momento.

Con un leggero, praticato spostamento del peso, Donatina lasciò che il suo piede scivolasse su una pietra sciolta. Un piccolo, elegante sospiro le sfuggì dalle labbra, e inciampò, torcendosi la caviglia quanto bastava per farla barcollare precariamente. La Signora Elena strillò, precipitandosi in avanti, ma gli occhi di Donatina erano su Michele.

Lui si raddrizzò lentamente, il martello ancora in mano, lo sguardo attratto dal trambusto. Per un fugace istante, i suoi occhi scuri incontrarono i suoi. Donatina offrì uno sguardo di angoscia a occhi spalancati, una mano delicata che le svolazzava al petto. Era l’immagine perfetta di una signora indifesa in difficoltà.

Michele, tuttavia, si limitò a osservare. La sua espressione rimase illeggibile, forse un lampo di fastidio, ma certamente nessuna preoccupazione. Guardò la Signora Elena affannarsi intorno a Donatina, aiutandola a riprendere l’equilibrio. Non disse nulla, non si mosse, non offrì una mano. Dopo un momento, si voltò semplicemente al suo lavoro, il ritmico clangore del suo martello contro la pietra riprese, un chiaro rifiuto.

Donatina sentì un rossore salirle sul collo, non per il finto inciampo, ma per la puntura della sua indifferenza. Il suo atto di “damigella in pericolo” accuratamente orchestrato era fallito. Non era stato affascinato; a malapena si era preoccupato. Vedeva solo l’inconveniente, la frivolezza della sua presenza nel suo mondo di duro lavoro.

“Sta bene, Donatina?” si preoccupò la Signora Elena, ignara della vera natura dell’angoscia di Donatina.

“Perfettamente bene, Signora,” rispose Donatina, la voce un po’ più acuta del previsto. Il suo primo tentativo era fallito. Ma una sfida, si ricordò, era veramente una sfida solo se richiedeva più di un tentativo. E lei era la persistenza in persona.

Imperterrita dal suo passo falso iniziale, Donatina trascorse i giorni successivi a raffinare la sua strategia. L’approccio della “damigella” era chiaramente troppo semplicistico per un uomo come Michele. Aveva bisogno di qualcosa di più sottile, qualcosa che potesse fare appello al suo intelletto, o almeno, al suo senso di osservazione.

La sua prossima idea riguardava il mercato locale. Era un centro vivace e caotico, un luogo dove persone di tutte le classi a volte si mescolavano, anche se brevemente. Donatina convinse sua madre che doveva scegliere da sola i fiori freschi per il grande salone della villa, un compito solitamente delegato alla servitù. Questa volta, scelse un abito di morbido cotone color crema, adornato con delicati pizzi che accennavano al suo status senza essere apertamente ostentato. I suoi capelli erano raccolti in una treccia semplice ed elegante, lasciando qualche ciocca sapientemente sciolta a incorniciarle il viso.

Mentre si muoveva tra le bancarelle, fingendo profonda contemplazione su un mazzo di gelsomini, i suoi occhi guizzavano, cercando. Eccolo, vicino al banco del pescivendolo, che contrattava con feroce intensità il prezzo del pescato. Era ancora più affascinante in questo ambiente, i suoi capelli scuri che gli ricadevano sulla fronte mentre gesticolava, la sua voce un basso borbottio che si diffondeva nel frastuono del mercato.

Donatina si posizionò strategicamente, abbastanza vicina per essere notata, ma abbastanza lontana da sembrare assorta nella sua selezione floreale. Si portò una vibrante rosa rossa al naso, inalando profondamente, i suoi occhi che si chiudevano brevemente in una mostra di delicata apprezzamento. Immaginava lui vederla, una visione di bellezza e raffinatezza in mezzo al caos rustico, magari persino ammirando il suo gusto raffinato.

Dopo un momento, aprì gli occhi e, come per caso, lasciò che il suo sguardo si spostasse verso di lui. I loro occhi si incontrarono. Donatina offrì un sorriso dolce, quasi etereo, un accenno di calore genuino nella sua espressione, progettato per sciogliere ogni pregiudizio residuo. Era un sorriso che aveva disarmato molti giovani nobili.

L’espressione di Michele, tuttavia, rimase impassibile. Si limitò a sostenere il suo sguardo per un attimo più del necessario, i suoi occhi scuri illeggibili, prima di voltarsi verso il pescivendolo con un breve cenno del capo, concludendo il suo acquisto. Poi si allontanò, un cesto di pesce stretto nella sua mano forte, scomparendo nella folla senza un’altra occhiata.

Il sorriso di Donatina vacillò. Non le aveva sorriso. Non l’aveva nemmeno riconosciuta oltre un breve, valutativo sguardo. La sua “curiosità intellettuale” attraverso l’apprezzamento dei fiori era stata completamente persa su di lui. Sembrava del tutto immune al sottile fascino che aveva perfezionato tra la sua gente. Era come se vedesse attraverso la sua facciata accuratamente costruita, o semplicemente non si curasse di guardare sotto di essa.

Una nuova frustrazione ribollì in lei. Quest’uomo era davvero un enigma. Non rispondeva all’impotenza, né all’elegante fascino. A cosa rispondeva? Donatina strinse un po’ più forte il gelsomino. Questo si stava rivelando molto più difficile, e molto più intrigante, di quanto avesse previsto. Aveva bisogno di un nuovo approccio, uno che potesse davvero attirare la sua attenzione, anche se ciò significava spingersi oltre i limiti del comportamento aristocratico.

Michele Bonanno, a ventisei anni, aveva visto più di una sua parte di giovani donne. Dalle ragazze del villaggio che arrossivano e ridevano quando passava, alle ambiziose figlie di mercanti che cercavano di attirare la sua attenzione con sorrisi calcolati e sguardi languidi, sapeva leggere le loro intenzioni come le pagine usurate di un vecchio libro. Era bello, lo sapeva, in un modo ruvido e baciato dal sole che piaceva a molti, ma conosceva anche il suo posto. E conosceva il loro.

La figlia della Contessa, Donatina Cabrera, non era diversa. Aveva notato la sua carrozza, naturalmente, una gabbia dorata che annunciava la ricchezza della sua famiglia e, a suo avviso, la loro natura sfruttatrice. Quella gabbia dorata, un ruggito meccanico costante nella sua periferia, simboleggiava promesse infrante e un decadimento sociale da cui una volta pensava di essere fuggito, solo che ora era ineluttabile e amplificato proprio fuori dai suoi ricordi d’infanzia. Aveva sentito il suo sguardo su di sé presso la diga, una fugace curiosità di una signora viziata. E l’inciampo inscenato? Aveva quasi sbuffato. Era una performance trasparente come le acque limpide della baia. Aveva visto simili buffonate da parte di ragazze che cercavano di accalappiare un marito più facoltoso.

Poi, al mercato, il suo tentativo con la rosa. L’aveva sorpresa a guardare, aveva visto il sorriso praticato e dolce. Conosceva quel sorriso. Era lo stesso che usavano i giovani nobili quando si credevano irresistibili. Aveva semplicemente incrociato il suo sguardo, una sfida silenziosa, prima di voltarsi verso il suo pesce. Non era uno sciocco da farsi distrarre da un bel viso, soprattutto uno che apparteneva alla famiglia che spremere ogni ultima lira dalla sua gente. La sua bellezza era innegabile, sì, ma era la bellezza di un fiore di serra – delicato, ornamentale, e del tutto disconnesso dal mondo reale che abitava. Non aveva tempo per tali giochi, nessun interesse per una donna che viveva del sudore degli altri. L’aveva vista, certo. L’aveva vista esattamente per quello che si aspettava che fosse.

Donatina, ignara del cinico giudizio che stava ricevendo, stava già pianificando la sua prossima mossa. Se il fascino palese falliva, forse era necessario un approccio più diretto, ma pur sempre socialmente accettabile. Ricordò i sussurri sulla sua abilità, la sua reputazione di maestro artigiano con la pietra. Quello, decise, era il suo orgoglio. E forse, la sua debolezza.

Tornata nella sua opulenta, ma sempre più soffocante, camera da letto a Villa Cabrera, Donatina si ritrovò consumata dai pensieri di Michele. Il sole pomeridiano, filtrando attraverso le pesanti tende di damasco, proiettava lunghe strisce dorate sul pavimento di marmo lucido, ma lei a malapena le notava. Giaceva sul suo divano, un libro di poesia dimenticato aperto sul petto, lo sguardo fisso sul soffitto affrescato.

La sua mente ripercorreva ogni fugace interazione, ogni sguardo di disprezzo. Lui la vedeva, sì, ma non lei. Vedeva la figlia della Contessa, il simbolo delle stesse ingiustizie che lui risentiva. Era esasperante, eppure, perversamente, alimentava solo la sua fascinazione. La sfida di sfondare le sue difese, di fargli vedere la vera Donatina, era più avvincente di qualsiasi trionfo sociale che avesse mai raggiunto.

La sua immaginazione, solitamente confinata alle narrazioni educate dei suoi romanzi approvati, ora galoppava sfrenata. Lo immaginava, non con i suoi abiti da lavoro polverosi, ma in un semplice abito scuro, le sue mani forti che le accarezzavano delicatamente il viso. Immaginava i suoi occhi scuri, non più pieni di disprezzo, ma di un’intensità bruciante destinata solo a lei. Sentiva il calore fantasma delle sue braccia avvolte attorno al suo corpo, i movimenti lenti ma saldi del suo abbraccio mentre la tirava più vicino. Il respiro le si mozzava alla vividezza della fantasia, un rossore le saliva alle guance. Lei, Donatina Cabrera, che avrebbe dovuto sognare grandi balli e matrimoni vantaggiosi, ora sognava solo le mani callose di un operaio, di una passione feroce e indomita che sfidava ogni regola del suo mondo. Il pensiero era scandaloso, esilarante e completamente totalizzante.

Il piano successivo di Donatina nacque da una conversazione che origliò tra suo padre e il suo amministratore immobiliare. Parlavano di una particolare sezione dell’antico muro del giardino della villa, un capolavoro di muratura locale in pietra, che aveva iniziato a sgretolarsi. La Contessa se ne era preoccupata, temendo che avrebbe rovinato la bellezza dei loro festeggiamenti estivi. E poi, l’amministratore menzionò Michele Bonanno, lo stesso uomo che lavorava alla diga, come l’unico con l’abilità di restaurarlo correttamente.

Una scintilla si accese nella mente di Donatina. Era questo. Non un finto incidente, non uno sguardo sottile, ma un appello diretto alla sua competenza, al suo orgoglio nel suo mestiere. Era una ragione legittima per interagire, una che trascendeva le sue solite frivolezze.

La mattina seguente, Donatina, accompagnata dalla Signora Elena, si diresse verso la sezione del muro del giardino. Indossava un semplice, ma elegante, abito da cavallerizza, il tipo che permetteva facilità di movimento ma che parlava comunque del suo status. I capelli erano ordinatamente raccolti, e la sua espressione era di seria contemplazione, un netto contrasto con i suoi precedenti tentativi di fascino.

Michele era già lì, esaminando le pietre in rovina con un’intensità concentrata che lo faceva sembrare ignaro del loro arrivo. Passò una mano callosa sulla superficie ruvida, la fronte corrucciata nel pensiero.

“Buongiorno, Signor Bonanno,” disse Donatina, la voce chiara e ferma, priva della leggerezza affettata che a volte impiegava. Aveva praticato il saluto, volendo trasmettere rispetto per il suo lavoro.

Michele si raddrizzò lentamente, i suoi occhi scuri che si voltavano verso di lei. C’era ancora quella familiarità guardinga, ma forse un lampo di sorpresa al suo approccio diretto. “Signorina Cabrera,” riconobbe con un breve cenno del capo, la sua voce un basso borbottio, più ruvida dei toni morbidi a cui era abituata.

“Mio padre, il Conte, ha parlato molto bene del suo lavoro sulla diga,” iniziò Donatina, scegliendo le parole con attenzione. “E capiamo che lei è il più abile a Ragusa per un restauro di pietre così intricato. Questo muro,” indicò la sezione in rovina, “è molto vecchio, e molto caro alla mia famiglia. Richiede il tocco di un maestro.”

Guardò il suo viso in cerca di una reazione. Il suo sguardo scorse il muro, poi tornò su di lei, un accenno di qualcosa di illeggibile nei suoi occhi. Era sospetto? O aveva finalmente toccato qualcosa che risuonava con lui?

“È pietra vecchia,” affermò Michele, la sua voce piatta, senza né confermare né negare il suo complimento. “E trascurata.”

Donatina sentì un lampo di fastidio, ma lo represse rapidamente. Non glielo avrebbe reso facile. “Infatti,” rispose, facendosi un po’ più vicina, pur mantenendo una distanza rispettabile. “Ed è per questo che cerchiamo il meglio. Mio padre desidera commissionarle il lavoro. Noi, naturalmente, pagheremmo equamente per il suo tempo e la sua competenza.”

Alla fine abbassò il martello, appoggiandolo al muro. I suoi occhi, scuri e penetranti, incontrarono i suoi pienamente. “Equamente, Signorina?” ripeté, un sottile tono nella sua voce che le fece venire i brividi. “La definizione di ‘equo’ della famiglia Cabrera spesso differisce dalla nostra.”

La schiettezza della sua affermazione, l’aperta accusa, la colpirono. Era un colpo diretto, un promemoria dell’abisso tra loro. La sua facciata accuratamente costruita di fascino educato crollò. Per lui non era un gioco. Questa era la sua vita, il suo sostentamento e le lotte della sua gente.

“Le assicuro, Signor Bonanno,” disse, la voce che perdeva la sua calma esercitata, un accenno di vera passione che vi entrava, “la mia intenzione è che questo muro venga restaurato magnificamente, e che lei sia compensato giustamente. Io… io non desidero essere come coloro che sfruttano. Desidero semplicemente che le cose siano giuste.”

Gli occhi di Michele si strinsero, studiandola. Il lampo di sorpresa tornò, più forte questa volta, come se non si fosse aspettato una risposta così sincera, quasi vulnerabile, da lei. L’aria tra loro si fece più densa, carica non della leggera civetteria che lei aveva inteso, ma del pesante fardello delle divisioni di classe inespresse e di una nascente, inaspettata tensione. Non disse altro, ma il suo sguardo indugiò, una domanda silenziosa nelle sue profondità. Per la prima volta, Donatina sentì che lui la vedeva veramente, anche se non gli piaceva ancora quello che vedeva.

Giorni si trasformarono in settimane, e l’antico muro del giardino in rovina divenne la nuova ossessione di Donatina. Trovò ragioni per visitare il sito ogni giorno, spesso con la Signora Elena al seguito, a volte con il pretesto di ispezionare i vasti roseti della villa. Portava il suo blocco da disegno nascosto e il carboncino, trovando una panchina appartata dove poteva osservare Michele e la sua squadra.

All’inizio, i suoi schizzi erano del muro stesso, gli intricati disegni delle vecchie pietre, il modo in cui la luce del sole cadeva su di esse. Ma inevitabilmente, il suo sguardo si spostava su Michele. Catturava la potente curva della sua schiena mentre sollevava una pesante pietra, l’intensità concentrata nei suoi occhi mentre scheggiava un pezzo ostinato, il modo in cui i suoi muscoli si flettevano sotto la camicia umida. Disegnò il suo profilo, la linea forte del suo naso, l’ostinata determinazione della sua mascella. Questi non erano i ritratti educati e idealizzati che le era stato insegnato a creare; erano crudi, vibranti, pieni dell’energia del suo lavoro. Sentiva una profonda, quasi primordiale, apprezzamento per la sua forza e dedizione, un’ammirazione che andava ben oltre la mera attrazione fisica.

Un afoso pomeriggio, si ritrovò a disegnarlo mentre si fermava per un momento, asciugandosi il sudore dalla fronte, la camicia che gli aderiva alle spalle larghe. Il suo carboncino si muoveva rapidamente, catturando la stanchezza mescolata all’orgoglio nella sua postura. Era così assorta che non lo sentì avvicinarsi finché la sua ombra non le cadde sulla pagina.

“Cosa sta facendo, Signorina?” La sua voce, profonda e risonante, la fece sussultare.

Donatina ansimò, la mano che le volò a coprire lo schizzo. Il suo cuore martellava nel petto, una mescolanza di paura ed euforia. “Michele! Signor Bonanno!” balbettò, le guance che le si arrossavano. “Io… io stavo solo ammirando la muratura.”

Lui le stava sopra, la sua presenza imponente, un debole profumo di polvere e pelle riscaldata dal sole che gli aleggiava intorno. I suoi occhi, solitamente così illeggibili, contenevano un lampo di curiosità mentre guizzavano verso il suo blocco nascosto. “Posso vedere?” chiese, il suo tono neutro, ma con una fermezza di fondo che non lasciava spazio al rifiuto.

A malincuore, Donatina spostò la mano, rivelando lo schizzo a metà di lui. I suoi occhi si allargarono quasi impercettibilmente mentre lo osservava. Si chinò più vicino, il suo sguardo fisso sul disegno, e Donatina divenne acutamente consapevole della sua vicinanza: il calore che irradiava dal suo corpo, il sottile profumo di lui, il modo in cui la sua ombra la avvolgeva. Il respiro le si bloccò in gola.

Studiò lo schizzo per un lungo momento, un muscolo che gli ticchettava nella mascella. Era una rappresentazione veritiera, senza fronzoli, che catturava la sua essenza in un modo che nessun ritratto di società avrebbe mai potuto. Vedeva la forza, sì, ma anche la stanchezza, la quieta dignità. Era lui.

Le porse il disegno, le sue dita callose che sfioravano le sue mentre lei lo prendeva. Per un istante, la sua mano indugiò, una scintilla di calore inaspettato passò tra loro, un riconoscimento silenzioso di qualcosa di più di pietra e carboncino. Poi si ritirò, anche se il suo sguardo rimase fisso sul suo, penetrando la sua compostezza.

“Si possono capire molte cose anche toccando,” ribatté Michele, la sua voce un basso, roco sussurro che le fece venire i brividi. “Chissà perché la gente ha così paura di toccare?”

La mente di Donatina corse, richiamando le sue fantasie, il calore fantasma ancora sulla sua pelle. “Forse perché pensano che abbia a che fare con il piacere?” azzardò, la voce a malapena udibile.

Un’ombra di un sorriso, quasi impercettibile, gli toccò le labbra. “Questa è solo un’altra buona ragione per toccare invece di parlare,” mormorò, i suoi occhi ancora fissi nei suoi, una comprensione silenziosa e profonda che passava tra loro.

Donatina si sentì veramente esposta, veramente vista, non come la figlia della Contessa, ma come l’artista che segretamente era, e una donna i cui desideri più intimi sembravano messi a nudo. E nel suo sguardo, sentì un fremito profondo ed esilarante che non aveva nulla a che fare con finte cadute o sorrisi affascinanti. Era una connessione, cruda e innegabile.

Ha apprezzato questo primo sguardo nel mondo di Donatina e Michele?

Se desidera leggere il Capitolo 2 e continuare il loro avvincente viaggio nella Ragusa del 1860, la prego di inviarmi una email a: mikelamonaca0@gmail.com. Mi faccia sapere che è interessato/a a Sotto il Sole Siciliano, e la guiderò personalmente su come acquistare e ricevere il prossimo capitolo.

Grazie per aver letto!

Chapter one

by Michael Lamonaca

The air in Ragusa, even in the languid heat of a July afternoon in 1863, carried the distinct scent of salt and sun-baked earth, a fragrance Donatina Cabrera knew intimately but rarely truly inhaled. From the plush, velvet-lined confines of her family’s carriage, the world outside was a blur of sun-drenched stone and the occasional flash of vibrant bougainvillea. Her governess, Signora Elena, droned on about proper comportment for young ladies of quality, but Donatina’s gaze, as always, drifted beyond the polished glass

They were on their way to deliver a basket of linens to the local orphanage, a dutiful act of charity orchestrated by her mother, the Contessa Cabrera. Donatina knew the ritual well: a brief, polite appearance, a few murmured blessings, and then back to the cool, shadowed halls of Villa Cabrera, high on the hill overlooking the town. It was a life of gilded cages, she often thought, though she dared not voice such a rebellious sentiment.

Today, however, a peculiar tremor of anticipation stirred within her. She’d heard whispers from the kitchen staff, snippets of conversation about a new, impossibly strong young man who had taken on the daunting task of repairing the ancient seawall near the old fishing quarter. A man, they said, with eyes like the deepest part of the Mediterranean and hands that could carve stone as easily as a sculptor shaped clay. Donatina, whose days were filled with embroidery, piano lessons, and tedious social calls, found herself captivated by the mere idea of such a man. He was a creature of the earth, of honest labor, utterly unlike the preening, powdered fops who frequented her family’s salon.

As the carriage rumbled past the bustling market square, where the shouts of vendors mingled with the bleating of goats, Donatina pressed closer to the window. The scent of fresh fish and ripe figs momentarily overpowered the carriage’s stale perfume. Her eyes scanned the sun-drenched street, past the women haggling over prices and the children chasing stray chickens.

Then she saw him.

He stood near the crumbling seawall, his back to the carriage, muscles rippling beneath a simple, sweat-soaked linen shirt. He wielded a heavy hammer with an almost brutal grace, chipping away at a stubborn piece of rock. The sun caught the dark waves of his hair, turning them to obsidian, and highlighted the strong line of his jaw. He was utterly absorbed, a force of nature against the ancient stone, oblivious to the world beyond his work.

Donatina felt a jolt, a sensation akin to lightning striking a still pond. He was even more magnificent than the whispers had described. His raw, untamed presence was a stark contrast to her own meticulously ordered existence. She watched, mesmerized, as he paused, wiping sweat from his brow with the back of his hand, his profile momentarily turned towards her. His eyes, indeed, were dark and intense, but they held a weariness, a deep-seated pride, and something else… a flicker of resentment as they swept over her family’s opulent carriage. He didn’t see her; he saw what she represented.

A strange mix of fascination and a pang of disappointment settled in Donatina’s chest. He hadn’t noticed her at all, not truly. He saw only the symbol of the very class he likely disdained. A challenge, then. A most intriguing challenge. She, Donatina Cabrera, would make him see her. And she had a few ideas about how to begin.

The very next morning, Donatina set her plan into motion. She convinced Signora Elena that a morning stroll through the lower town, near the old olive groves, would be excellent for her constitution. It was a route that, coincidentally, would take them past the seawall where the handsome laborer toiled. She chose a dress of pale blue muslin, deceptively simple, yet designed to flutter with every breeze, hinting at the figure beneath. A wide-brimmed hat, adorned with a single, delicate silk flower, framed her face, allowing just enough shadow to enhance the mystery of her eyes.

“Donatina, do be careful where you step,” Signora Elena cautioned, her voice laced with her usual anxiety as they navigated the uneven cobblestones, a stark contrast to the smooth paths of the villa gardens.

Donatina merely smiled, her gaze fixed on the distant glint of sunlight on stone. As they approached the seawall, she saw him. Michele. He was there, just as she’d hoped, moving large stones with an effortless strength that made the other laborers seem like children. He wore the same simple linen shirt, now even more stained with dust and sweat.

This was her moment.

With a subtle, practiced shift of her weight, Donatina allowed her foot to slip on a loose stone. A small, elegant gasp escaped her lips, and she stumbled, twisting her ankle just enough to make her waver precariously. Signora Elena shrieked, rushing forward, but Donatina’s eyes were on Michele.

He straightened, his hammer still in hand, his gaze drawn by the commotion. For a fleeting second, his dark eyes met hers. Donatina offered a look of wide-eyed distress, a delicate hand fluttering to her chest. She was the perfect picture of a helpless lady in need.

Michele, however, merely observed. His expression remained unreadable, perhaps a flicker of annoyance, but certainly no concern. He watched as Signora Elena fussed over Donatina, helping her regain her balance. He said nothing, did not move, did not offer a hand. After a moment, he simply turned back to his work, the rhythmic clang of his hammer against stone resuming, a clear dismissal.

Donatina felt a flush creep up her neck, not from the feigned stumble, but from the sting of his indifference. Her carefully orchestrated “damsel in distress” act had fallen flat. He hadn’t been charmed; he’d barely been bothered. He saw only the inconvenience, the frivolousness of her presence in his world of hard labor.

“Are you quite right, Donatina?” Signora Elena fretted, oblivious to the true nature of Donatina’s distress.

“Perfectly fine, Signora,” Donatina replied, her voice a little sharper than intended. Her first attempt had failed. But a challenge, she reminded herself, was only truly a challenge if it required more than one try. And she was nothing if not persistent.

Undeterred by her initial misstep, Donatina spent the next few days refining her strategy. The “damsel” approach was too simplistic for a man like Michele. She needed something more subtle, something that would appeal to his intellect, or at least, his sense of observation.

Her next idea involved the local market. It was a vibrant, chaotic hub, and a place where people of all classes sometimes mingled, however briefly. Donatina convinced her mother that she needed to select fresh flowers for the villa’s grand salon herself, a task usually relegated to the servants. This time, she chose a dress of soft, flowing cream, adorned with delicate lace that hinted at her status without being overtly ostentatious. She wore her hair in a simple, elegant braid, allowing a few artfully loose tendrils to frame her face.

As she moved through the stalls, feigning deep contemplation over a bunch of jasmine, her eyes darted, searching. There he was, near the fishmonger’s stand, haggling with a fierce intensity over the price of a catch. He was even more compelling in this setting, his dark hair falling across his brow as he gestured, his voice a low rumble that carried over the market din.

Donatina positioned herself strategically, close enough to be noticed, yet far enough to appear absorbed in her floral selection. She held a vibrant red rose to her nose, inhaling deeply, her eyes briefly fluttering closed in a display of delicate appreciation. She imagined him seeing her, a vision of beauty and refinement amidst the rustic chaos, perhaps even admiring her discerning taste.

After a moment, she opened her eyes and, as if by accident, allowed her gaze to drift towards him. Their eyes met. Donatina offered a soft, almost ethereal smile, a hint of genuine warmth in her expression, designed to melt any lingering prejudice. It was a smile that had disarmed many a young nobleman.

Michele’s expression, however, remained impassive. He merely held her gaze for a beat longer than necessary, his dark eyes unreadable, before turning back to the fishmonger with a curt nod, concluding his purchase. He then moved away, a basket of fish clutched in his strong hand, disappearing into the crowd without another glance.

Donatina’s smile faltered. He hadn’t smiled back. He hadn’t even acknowledged her beyond a brief, assessing stare. Her “intellectual curiosity” through flower appreciation had been completely lost on him. He seemed utterly immune to the subtle allure she had perfected among her own set. It was as if he saw right through her carefully constructed facade, or simply didn’t care to look beneath it.

A new frustration bubbled within her. This man was truly a puzzle. He didn’t respond to helplessness, nor to elegant charm. What did he respond to? Donatina clutched the jasmine a little tighter. This was proving to be far more difficult, and far more intriguing, than she had anticipated. She needed a new approach, one that might genuinely catch his attention, even if it meant stepping further outside the bounds of proper aristocratic behavior.

Michele Bonanno, at twenty-six, had seen more than his share of young women. From the village girls who blushed and giggled when he passed, to the ambitious daughters of merchants who tried to catch his eye with calculated smiles and lingering glances, he could read their intentions like the worn pages of an old book. He was handsome, he knew, in a rugged, sun-baked way that appealed to many, but he also knew his place. And he knew theirs.

The Contessa’s daughter, Donatina Cabrera, was no different. He’d noticed her carriage, of course, a gilded cage that announced her family’s wealth and, to his mind, their exploitative nature. That gilded cage, a constant, mechanical roar in his periphery, symbolized promises broken and a societal decay he once thought he’d escaped, only now, it was inescapable and amplified right outside his childhood memories. He’d felt her gaze on him by the seawall, a fleeting curiosity from a pampered lady. And the staged stumble? He’d almost scoffed. It was a performance as transparent as the clear waters of the bay. He’d seen similar antics from girls trying to snag a more prosperous husband.

Then, at the market, her an attempt with the rose. He’d caught her looking, seen the practiced, soft smile. He knew that smile. It was the same one the young noblemen used when they thought themselves irresistible. He’d merely met her gaze, a silent challenge, before turning back to his fish. He wasn’t a fool to be distracted by a pretty face, especially one that belonged to the family who squeezed every last lira from his people. Her beauty was undeniable, yes, but it was the beauty of a hothouse flower – delicate, ornamental, and utterly disconnected from the real world he inhabited. He had no time for such games, no interest in a woman who lived off the sweat of others. He saw her, alright. He just saw her for exactly what he expected her to be.

Donatina, unaware of the cynical assessment she was receiving, was already plotting her next move. If overt charm failed, perhaps a more direct, yet still socially acceptable, approach was needed. She remembered the whispers about his skill, his reputation as a master craftsman with stone. That, she decided, was his pride. And perhaps, his weakness.

Back in her opulent, yet increasingly stifling, bedroom at Villa Cabrera, Donatina found herself consumed by thoughts of Michele. The afternoon sun, filtering through the heavy damask curtains, cast long, golden stripes across the polished marble floor, but she barely noticed. She lay on her chaise lounge, a forgotten book of poetry open on her chest, her gaze fixed on the frescoed ceiling.

Her mind replayed every fleeting interaction, every dismissive glance. He saw her, yes, but not her. He saw the Contessa’s daughter, the symbol of the very injustices he resented. It was infuriating, yet, perversely, it only fueled her fascination. The challenge of breaking through his defenses, of making him see the real Donatina, was more compelling than any social triumph she had ever achieved.

Her imagination, usually confined to the polite narratives of her approved novels, now ran wild. She pictured him, not in his dusty work clothes, but in a simple, dark suit, his strong hands gently cupping her face. She imagined his dark eyes, no longer filled with disdain, but with a searing intensity meant only for her. She felt the phantom warmth of his arms wrapped around her body, the slow, firm movements of his embrace as he pulled her closer. Her breath hitched at the vividness of the fantasy, a blush rising to her cheeks. She, Donatina Cabrera, who was supposed to dream of grand balls and advantageous marriages, now dreamt only of the calloused hands of a laborer, of a fierce, untamed passion that defied every rule of her world. The thought was scandalous, exhilarating, and utterly consuming.

Donatina’s next plan was born from a conversation she overheard between her father and his estate manager. They spoke of a particular section of the villa’s ancient garden wall, a masterpiece of local stone masonry, that had begun to crumble. The Contessa had been fretting about it, fearing it would mar the beauty of their summer festivities. And then, the manager mentioned Michele Bonanno, the very man working on the seawall, as the only one with the skill to properly restore it.

A spark ignited in Donatina’s mind. This was it. Not a feigned accident, not a subtle glance, but a direct appeal to his expertise, to his pride in his craft. It was a legitimate reason for them to interact, one that transcended her usual frivolous pursuits.

The following morning, Donatina, accompanied by Signora Elena, made her way to the section of the garden wall. She wore a simple, yet elegant, riding habit, the kind that allowed for ease of movement but still spoke of her station. Her hair was neatly pinned, and her expression was one of serious contemplation, a stark contrast to her previous attempts at charm.

Michele was already there, examining the crumbling stones with a focused intensity that made him seem oblivious to their arrival. He ran a calloused hand over the rough surface, his brow furrowed in thought.

“Good morning, Signor Bonanno,” Donatina said, her voice clear and steady, devoid of the affected lightness she sometimes employed. She had practiced the address, wanting to convey respect for his work.

Michele straightened slowly, his dark eyes turning to her. There was still that familiar guardedness, but perhaps a flicker of surprise at her direct approach. “Signorina Cabrera,” he acknowledged with a curt nod, his voice a low rumble, rougher than the soft tones she was accustomed to.

“My father, the Conte, spoke highly of your work on the seawall,” Donatina began, choosing her words carefully. “And we understand you are the most skilled in Ragusa for such intricate stone repair. This wall,” she gestured to the crumbling section, “is very old, and very dear to my family. It requires a master’s touch.”

She watched his face for a reaction. His gaze swept over the wall, then back to her, a hint of something unreadable in his eyes. Was it suspicion? Or had she finally touched upon something that resonated with him?

“It is old stone,” Michele stated, his voice flat, neither confirming nor denying her compliment. “And neglected.”

Donatina felt a flicker of annoyance, but quickly suppressed it. He wasn’t going to make this easy. “Indeed,” she replied, stepping a little closer, though maintaining a respectable distance. “Which is why we seek the best. My father wishes to commission you. We would, of course, pay fairly for your time and expertise.”

He finally lowered his hammer, resting it against the wall. His eyes, dark and assessing, met hers fully. “Fairly, Signorina?” he repeated, a subtle edge to his tone that sent a shiver down her spine. “The Cabrera family’s definition of ‘fair’ often differs from ours.”

The bluntness of his statement, the open accusation, struck her. It was a direct hit, a reminder of the chasm between them. Her carefully constructed facade of polite charm crumbled. This was not a game to him. This was his life, his livelihood, and the struggles of his people.

“I assure you, Signor Bonanno,” she said, her voice losing its practiced calm, a hint of genuine passion entering it, “I intend to see this wall restored beautifully, and for you to be compensated justly. I… I do not wish to be like those who exploit. I simply wish for things to be right.”

Michele’s eyes narrowed, studying her. The flicker of surprise returned, stronger this time, as if he hadn’t expected such an earnest, almost vulnerable, response from her. The air between them thickened, charged not with the light flirtation she had intended, but with the heavy weight of unspoken class divides and a burgeoning, unexpected tension. He said nothing more, but his gaze lingered, a silent question in its depths. For the first time, Donatina felt as though he truly saw her, even if he still didn’t like what he saw.

Days turned into weeks, and the crumbling garden wall became Donatina’s new obsession. She found reasons to visit the site daily, often with Signora Elena in tow, sometimes under the guise of inspecting the villa’s extensive rose gardens. She brought her hidden sketching pad and charcoal, finding a secluded bench where she could observe Michele and his crew.

At first, her sketches were of the wall itself, the intricate patterns of the old stones, the way the sunlight fell upon them. But inevitably, her gaze would drift to Michele. She captured the powerful curve of his back as he lifted a heavy stone, the focused intensity in his eyes as he chipped away at a stubborn piece, the way his muscles flexed under his damp shirt. She drew his profile, the strong line of his nose, the stubborn set of his jaw. These were not the polite, idealized portraits she was taught to create; they were raw, vibrant, filled with the energy of his labor. She felt a deep, almost primal, appreciation for his strength and dedication, an admiration that went far beyond mere physical attraction.

One sweltering afternoon, she found herself sketching him as he paused for a moment, wiping sweat from his brow, his shirt clinging to his broad shoulders. Her charcoal moved swiftly, capturing the exhaustion mingled with pride in his posture. She was so absorbed that she didn’t hear him approach until his shadow fell over her page.

“What are you doing, Signorina?” His voice, deep and resonant, startled her.

Donatina gasped, her hand flying to cover the sketch. Her heart hammered against her ribs, a mixture of fear and exhilaration. “Michele! Signor Bonanno!” she stammered, her cheeks flushing. “I… I was merely admiring the stonework.”

He stood over her, his presence commanding, a faint scent of dust and sun-warmed skin clinging to him. His eyes, usually so unreadable, held a flicker of curiosity as they darted to her hidden pad. “May I see?” he asked, his tone neutral, but with an underlying firmness that left no room for refusal.

Reluctantly, Donatina moved her hand, revealing the half-finished sketch of him. His eyes widened almost imperceptibly as he took it in. He leaned closer, his gaze fixed on the drawing, and Donatina became acutely aware of his proximity: the warmth radiating from his body, the subtle scent of him, the way his shadow enveloped her. Her breath caught in her throat.

He studied the sketch for a long moment, a muscle ticking in his jaw. It was a truthful, unvarnished depiction, capturing his essence in a way no society portrait ever could. He saw the strength, yes, but also the weariness, the quiet dignity. It was him.

He held the drawing out to her, his calloused fingers brushing against hers as she took it. For an instant, his hand lingered, a spark of unexpected heat passing between them, a silent acknowledgment of something more than stone and charcoal. Then he withdrew, though his gaze remained locked on hers, piercing through her composure.

“You can also understand all sorts of things by touching,” Michele countered, his voice a low, gravelly whisper that sent a shiver through her. “Who knows why people are so afraid of touching?”

Donatina’s mind raced, recalling her own fantasies, the phantom warmth still on her skin. “Perhaps because they think it is something to do with pleasure?” she ventured, her voice barely audible.

A ghost of a smile, almost imperceptible, touched his lips. “That is just another good reason for touching instead of talking,” he murmured, his eyes still locked on hers, a silent, profound understanding passing between them.

Donatina felt truly exposed, truly seen, not as a Contessa’s daughter, but as the artist she secretly was, and a woman whose innermost desires felt laid bare. And in his gaze, she felt a profound, exhilarating tremor that had nothing to do with feigned stumbles or charming smiles. It was a connection, raw and undeniable.

Enjoyed this first glimpse into Donatina and Michele’s world?

If you’re eager to read Chapter 2 and continue their captivating journey in 1860s Ragusa, please send me an email at: mikelamonaca0@gmail.com. Just let me know you’re interested in Beneath the Sicilian Sun, and I’ll personally guide you on how to purchase and receive the next chapter.

Thank you for reading!

August Update: Interest Earned on Patient Cash

By Michael Lamonaca 1 August 2025

Welcome to the August update for My Patient Investing Lab! As we’ve now entered a new month, it’s time to report on the very first interest payment earned on our strategic cash position.

The core of the “il dolce far niente” philosophy is to ensure that every part of our long-term wealth is working for us, even when we are patiently waiting. Our parked capital of AUD$77,797.48, which is ready to deploy when compelling opportunities arise, has now generated its first piece of passive income in the form of interest.

For 22 days in July, our cash position has earned AUD$217.38 in interest, based on a total annual rate of 4.65%. This was calculated as: (AUD$77,797.48 * (4.65% / 365) * 22). This income, while modest, is a perfect demonstration of the quiet power of compounding—our uninvested cash is also a productive asset, contributing to our ongoing cash flow.

With this interest payment, our total cash position has now increased to AUD$78,014.86. We continue to hold this capital with discipline, patiently waiting for a high-quality business to trade at a significant discount to its intrinsic value. There were no new virtual purchases in July, as no opportunities met my stringent criteria.

I will continue to provide transparent updates on this lab, documenting all interest earned, as well as the accumulation of dividends from our strategic holdings. The journey toward financial freedom is a marathon, not a sprint, and every bit of income helps.

Stay tuned for the next update!

Lesson Thirteen: The Serene Path to Retirement: Mastering Income Investing with “il dolce far niente”

By Michael Lamonaca, 30 July 2025

It is a common surprise for many to discover the substantial financial resources truly required for a comfortable retirement. This is precisely why income investing presents a pivotal concept for anyone planning their journey towards financial freedom and securing a truly serene later life.

At its heart, income investing is the disciplined acquisition of strategic holdings—high-quality stocks that generate consistent dividends. The ultimate objective is to build a portfolio where the passive income stream is so robust that it can effortlessly sustain your desired lifestyle, all while your underlying assets either remain intact or continue to grow through the power of compounding. This embodies the very essence of il dolce far niente—earning without constant toil.

Consider a practical illustration: Imagine having a long-term wealth portfolio of $1,000,000 that can make a stable 5% return. In that case, you would receive $50,000 each year in proceeds from your investment. Suppose your annual expenses are at or below this amount. In that case, you have effectively achieved the freedom to maintain your desired lifestyle indefinitely, without ever needing to dip into your original capital. This is the tangible benefit of disciplined investing.

For those nearing retirement, the approach is clear: Focus your efforts on acquiring stable, income-generating assets. Our rigorous analytical framework, detailed in previous lessons, becomes your steadfast guide. You’ve learned about the critical importance of a company’s balance sheet and its handling of liabilities.

To truly grasp this, consider the stark contrast during challenging economic periods. Companies burdened with excessive debt often dramatically cut their dividend payments, leaving their investors exposed and financially vulnerable. This is precisely the type of situation you want to avoid if your passive income is earmarked for essential bills. Conversely, businesses with robust financial health and a low debt profile are significantly better positioned to sustain their dividends, and have historically demonstrated greater resilience during challenging periods, making them more reliable as genuine strategic holdings for your long-term wealth.

A fundamental rule to embrace in income investing for the “il dolce far niente” investor is straightforward: “Always purchase assets that will increase your cash flow next month.” It could be low-debt stocks paying dividends. Income investing has a compounding effect that is hard to find elsewhere.

To illustrate the profound impact of this compounding on your passive income, consider this: If your initial annual dividend income grows by an average of 5% per year:

• From an initial $50,000 (from $1,000,000 capital):
  • After 5 years, your annual income would grow to approximately $63,814.
  • After 10 years, it would reach approximately $81,444.
  • After 20 years, it would astonishingly climb to approximately $132,665 per year.
• From an initial $5,000 (from $100,000 capital):
  • After 5 years, your annual income would grow to approximately $6,381.
  • After 10 years, it would reach approximately $8,144.
  • After 20 years, it would climb to approximately $13,266 per year.

This powerful demonstration of increasing monthly cash flow highlights how you can continuously seize value investing opportunities by reinvesting into the most undervalued assets that meet your stringent criteria, accelerating your journey towards financial freedom.

In conclusion, income investing is a cornerstone of our philosophy:

• It provides predictable, often quarterly, payments that secure your financial life during retirement.
• It establishes a stable stream of cash flow that continuously empowers you to acquire the most undervalued assets that meet your criteria, a benefit that is especially potent both before and during your retirement years.
• A hallmark of a high-quality, dividend-paying company, aligning with our principles for sustainable passive income and long-term wealth creation, is typically when approximately one-third (1/3) of its earnings are distributed as dividends, with the remaining two-thirds (2/3) retained by the company for reinvestment and growth, fostering continuous compounding and long-term wealth creation.

Lesson Thirteen: The Serene Path to Retirement: Mastering Income Investing with “il dolce far niente”

By Michael Lamonaca, 28 July 2025

It is a common surprise for many to discover the substantial financial resources truly required for a comfortable retirement. This is precisely why income investing presents a pivotal concept for anyone planning their journey towards financial freedom and securing a truly serene later life.

At its core, income investing involves the disciplined acquisition of strategic holdings—whether high-quality stocks that generate consistent dividends or bonds that provide stable coupon payments. The ultimate objective is to build a portfolio where the passive income stream is so robust that it can effortlessly sustain your desired lifestyle, all while your underlying assets either remain intact or continue to grow through the power of compounding. This embodies the very essence of il dolce far niente—earning without constant toil.

Consider a practical illustration: Imagine having a long-term wealth portfolio of $1,000,000 that consistently yields a stable 5% annual return. This translates to $50,000 in passive income flowing directly to you each year. Suppose your annual expenses are at or below this amount. In that case, you have effectively achieved the freedom to maintain your desired lifestyle indefinitely, without ever needing to dip into your original capital. This is the tangible benefit of disciplined investing.

For those nearing retirement, the approach is clear: Focus your efforts on acquiring stable, income-generating assets. Our rigorous analytical framework, detailed in previous lessons, becomes your steadfast guide. You’ve learned about the critical importance of a company’s balance sheet and its handling of liabilities.

To truly grasp this, consider the stark contrast during challenging economic periods. Companies burdened with excessive debt often dramatically cut their dividend payments, leaving their investors exposed and financially vulnerable. This is precisely the type of situation you want to avoid if your passive income is earmarked for essential bills. Conversely, businesses with robust financial health and a low debt profile have historically managed to sustain or even increase their dividends, demonstrating their resilience and reliability as genuine strategic holdings for your long-term wealth.

A fundamental rule to embrace in income investing for the “il dolce far niente” investor is straightforward: “Always purchase assets that will increase your cash flow next month.” Whether it’s a low-debt stock consistently paying dividends or a bond delivering predictable coupons, this continuous influx of capital provides a unique compounding effect that is unparalleled in other investment strategies.

The market’s dynamics mean that the attractiveness of investment opportunities is constantly shifting. The profound benefit of nurturing a continuously increasing monthly cash flow is the inherent flexibility it grants you: you possess the ongoing capital to invest strategically into the most undervalued assets as they present themselves. This empowers you to consistently apply your value investing principles, further accelerating your journey towards financial freedom.

In conclusion, income investing is a cornerstone of our philosophy:

• It provides predictable, often quarterly, payments that secure your financial life during retirement.
• It establishes a stable stream of cash flow that continuously empowers you to acquire the most undervalued assets that meet your criteria, a benefit that is especially potent both before and during your retirement years.
• A hallmark of a high-quality, dividend-paying company, aligning with our principles for sustainable passive income and long-term wealth creation, is typically when approximately one-third (1/3) of its earnings are distributed as dividends, with the remaining two-thirds (2/3) retained by the company for reinvestment and growth, fostering continuous compounding and long-term wealth creation.

Discovering Inner Strength: A Journey Through Stoic Wisdom

by Michael Lamonaca 26 July 2025

Let me introduce you to a Stoic philosopher whose life story is truly captivating: Epictetus. Born into slavery, he faced profound hardship from the very beginning. Yet, he transcended his circumstances in a way that epitomizes Stoic philosophy. Despite enduring a life that most would find unbearable, Epictetus never allowed his external conditions to dictate his inner world. He steadfastly focused on the only things truly within his control: his thoughts and reactions. This embodies a fundamental Stoic truth: we possess power over our minds, not over external events. This mastery over our inner world is crucial for good mental health, which, in turn, profoundly influences the way we navigate all aspects of life, including our investment decisions. Epictetus eventually rose to become a renowned philosopher, sharing Stoicism and inspiring countless individuals. His teachings emphasized the importance of living in harmony with nature and mastering our desires. His wisdom serves as a timeless guide, helping us cultivate peace and contentment, regardless of the challenges life presents. So, when you find yourself grappling with life’s difficulties or seeking a deeper sense of purpose, consider Epictetus. His remarkable journey and profound Stoic insights can illuminate your path, empowering you to navigate life with resilience and an unshakeable inner strength. Let us explore the world of Stoicism together and uncover the profound gems of wisdom it offers for our own lives.

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1. Amor Fati: Embrace Your Fate Amor Fati is a powerful Stoic concept meaning “loving your fate.” It’s about wholeheartedly embracing not only the positive aspects of life but also its challenges and setbacks. Imagine viewing every obstacle as a genuine opportunity for personal growth and transformation. It’s a mindset that declares, “Life, bring forth whatever you will, and I will find a way to make the most of it.” Life is inherently unpredictable; things often don’t unfold as planned. This is where Amor Fati becomes vital, encouraging us to accept the circumstances we are given and to actively seek ways to turn even the toughest situations into something positive. It cultivates deep resilience, affirming, “My circumstances will not define me; I will define how I respond to them.”

2. Serve Others: Contribute to the Common Good The Stoic principle of serving others profoundly inspires a sense of purpose beyond oneself. It highlights that contributing positively to your community or the world not only benefits others but also brings a deep sense of fulfillment to your own life. This creates a beautiful cycle of giving and receiving. When you assist someone or make a positive impact, it’s like planting a seed of goodness that grows not only in their life but also in yours. It fosters a powerful sense of connection and reminds us of our inherent interconnectedness.

3. Memento Mori: Remember Your Mortality Memento Mori, a Latin phrase meaning “remember you will die,” may sound somber initially, but it is a profoundly empowering reminder to live each day fully. Imagine approaching each morning with the awareness that this day is precious. It serves as a call to appreciate life, cherish moments, and ensure every day truly counts. Memento Mori is not about dwelling on death; it’s about embracing life with urgency and profound purpose. It acts as an inner voice, reminding you that time is invaluable, urging you to prioritize what genuinely brings you joy and fulfillment in both your actions and relationships.

4. Self-Discipline: Your Internal Compass Self-discipline acts as your steadfast internal compass, guiding you to stay on course and maintain focus, particularly when faced with life’s numerous distractions or temptations. It is the crucial ability to make choices that align with your long-term aspirations, even when an easier path might tempt you away. Consider it the secret to achieving your dreams: consistently taking action, even when motivation wanes. Self-discipline empowers you to build positive habits in every aspect of your life—be it work, health, or personal growth—acting as a loyal friend who holds you accountable to your highest self.

5. Morning Routine: Your Blueprint for Success Envision your morning routine as the fundamental bedrock of your day—an intentional period where you consciously set the tone for what is to follow. Whether it involves meditation, exercise, or simply organizing your schedule, it’s a deliberate way to begin with purpose and clarity. A morning routine serves as your daily blueprint for success. It’s not about rigidity, but about cultivating a dedicated space for self-care and personal growth. Starting your day with intention remarkably boosts your productivity and overall well-being, granting you a significant head start in the journey of life.

6. Essentialism: Simplify Your Life Essentialism is fundamentally about simplifying your existence. Picture it as decluttering not just your physical surroundings but also your mind. It’s about discerning what truly holds importance and dedicating your focus there, while consciously releasing unnecessary distractions. This practice creates vital space for what genuinely matters. Imagine your life as a room filled with various items—some valuable, some mere junk, and others simply occupying space. Essentialism is the process of navigating that room, identifying the treasures, and clearing away the clutter. It empowers you to decline invitations that don’t align with your deepest values or goals, and to wholeheartedly embrace what truly serves your purpose, bringing profound clarity and meaning to your life.

7. Adaptability: Embrace Change Life is inherently unpredictable, making adaptability your supreme power in navigating its ceaseless shifts. It is the capacity to remain flexible and discover new pathways forward when circumstances diverge from your plans. Instead of becoming mired, you skillfully pivot, extracting the utmost benefit from challenging situations. Visualize a bamboo tree weathering a storm: it bends and sways gracefully with the wind, yet it does not break. Adaptability means not resisting change, but embracing it as a fertile opportunity for growth. It cultivates a mindset that confidently declares, “I can handle whatever life presents,” empowering you to flourish in an ever-evolving world.

8. Action Over Information: Turning Dreams into Reality Imagine possessing a wealth of knowledge yet never putting it into practice. Action is where genuine transformation occurs. It’s about taking that crucial first step, no matter how small, rather than endlessly accumulating information. This is how you convert your aspirations into tangible realities. Consider it akin to holding a treasure map replete with clues to a hidden fortune: knowing the map exists is one thing, but embarking on the journey to follow those clues and unearth the treasure is another entirely. Action translates potential into concrete results, imbuing you with the courage to set sail toward your dreams instead of merely reading about distant lands.

9. Tolerant with Others, Strict with Yourself: Balancing Compassion and Self-Improvement This principle elegantly encapsulates the essence of balance: extending patience and understanding when interacting with others, while simultaneously holding oneself to high standards for personal development. It’s about embodying kindness towards others while rigorously challenging yourself to become your best self. Balancing tolerance with self-discipline can be a subtle art. It involves recognizing that everyone is on their unique path, and sometimes individuals may not meet our expectations. In such moments, the focus shifts from judgment to offering understanding and support. Concurrently, it is crucial to establish and pursue high standards for your own growth. This approach acts as a supportive yet firm coach, gently nudging you toward realizing your full potential.

10. Resilience: Bouncing Back from Life’s Challenges Life inevitably delivers its share of difficult moments, and that is precisely where resilience emerges. It is akin to possessing a strong, flexible backbone that enables you to rebound from setbacks and arduous times. Instead of perceiving obstacles as impenetrable barriers, you view them as valuable opportunities for growth. Resilience is about cultivating that profound mental toughness—the capacity to confront adversity directly and emerge from it even stronger than before.

11. Empathy: Understanding Others. Have you ever truly considered what it’s like to walk in another person’s shoes? That is the essence of empathy: the profound ability to genuinely understand and share the feelings of another individual. It is akin to saying, “I see you, I hear you, and I am here for you.” Empathy fosters deep and authentic connections with others, empowering us to navigate the intricate complexities of human relationships with profound compassion and genuine kindness.

12. Mindfulness: Being Present in the Moment Do you often find your thoughts drifting to worries about the past or anxieties about the future? Mindfulness is the powerful antidote. It is the practice of being entirely present in the moment, fully appreciating the here and now. It’s like savoring every flavor of a delicious meal or feeling the comforting warmth of the sun on your skin during a leisurely walk. Mindfulness introduces a profound sense of calm and clarity into your life, helping you liberate yourself from the grip of anxiety and stress.

13. Purpose: Guiding Your Life Have you ever pondered the question, “What is my purpose in life?” Stoicism offers profound guidance. Your purpose acts as your unwavering North Star, illuminating your decisions and actions. It is akin to possessing a deep mission that imbues your life with profound meaning and direction. It’s about waking each day with a clear sense of why you do what you do. Purpose ignites your passion and fuels your drive, empowering you to surmount challenges with unwavering determination.

14. Continuous Learning: Never Stop Growing Envision life as an endless expedition of growth and discovery. Stoicism profoundly encourages us to perpetually seek knowledge. It’s akin to declaring, “I am a perpetual student of life, and there is always something novel to unearth.” Continuous learning sharpens your intellect, broadens your perspectives, and keeps your viewpoint fresh. It’s like adding vibrant, new hues to the canvas of your life story.

15. Gratitude: Counting Your Blessings Have you ever paused to truly reflect on all the blessings in your life? Gratitude is like a comforting embrace for your soul. It’s the profound practice of recognizing and appreciating the people, experiences, and things that enrich your existence. It’s akin to saying, “Thank you, Universe, for all these beautiful moments.” Gratitude shifts your focus from what might be lacking to the abundance you already possess, filling your heart with profound contentment.

16. Patience: Mastering the Art of Waiting In our fast-paced world, patience is a truly rare and precious gem—the serene ability to wait calmly without succumbing to frustration. It’s like standing in a lengthy queue at the grocery store and remaining unperturbed by any urge to rush. Patience is an invaluable skill that empowers you to maintain composure when confronted with delays or challenging situations. It’s akin to possessing a superpower that effectively keeps stress at bay.

17. Kindness: Small Acts, Big Impact Did you know that even the smallest acts of kindness can profoundly impact someone’s day? Kindness is akin to sprinkling a little bit of magic wherever you go. It’s about being thoughtful and compassionate, not just towards others, but also towards yourself. It’s like proclaiming, “In a world where I can be anything, I choose kindness.” Kindness creates a ripple effect of positivity that extends far and wide, touching many lives.

18. Courage: Facing Your Fears. It’s completely normal to feel afraid sometimes. But courage is about bravely stepping into the arena despite those fears. It’s like saying, “I acknowledge my fears, but I refuse to let them hold me captive.” Courage empowers you to confront challenges head-on, whether it’s articulating your convictions or pursuing your aspirations. It’s akin to awakening a fierce inner warrior within you.

19. Simplicity: Less is More. Have you ever noticed the incredible liberation that comes with simplicity? It’s about decluttering not just your physical environment but also your mind. Simplicity is akin to Marie Kondo-ing your life—releasing what no longer serves you and intensely focusing on what genuinely matters. This practice diminishes overwhelm and introduces a profound sense of calm and clarity.

20. Honesty: The Foundation of Trust Honesty is like the robust foundation of a well-built house—it forms the bedrock of trust and integrity in all your relationships. Being honest means speaking truthfully and acting authentically, even when it’s difficult. It’s like affirming, “I value honesty, and I will uphold it.” Honesty cultivates trust, and trust, in turn, fosters strong, meaningful connections with others.

21. Healthy Lifestyle: Caring for Your Body and Mind. Consider your body and mind as a sacred temple. A healthy lifestyle is akin to giving that temple the profound care and respect it truly deserves. It encompasses regular exercise, a balanced diet, and consistent self-care. Nurturing your physical and mental well-being not only makes you feel better but also powerfully equips you to face life’s challenges with boundless vitality.

22. Forgiveness: Letting Go of Resentment Have you ever clung to a grudge, feeling its oppressive weight? Forgiveness is akin to liberating yourself from that heavy burden. It’s about consciously releasing anger and resentment directed towards others. Forgiveness isn’t about condoning someone’s actions; it’s about freeing yourself from the emotional chains of the past. It’s like declaring, “I choose peace over clinging to pain.”

23. Respect: Treating Others with Dignity Respect is truly the Golden Rule: treat others as you wish to be treated. It’s about consistently showing consideration and courtesy to every individual, regardless of their background, beliefs, or differences. Respect fosters harmony and mutual understanding in our diverse world. It’s like affirming, “I honor the inherent worth and dignity of every person.”

24. Optimism: A Brighter Perspective Even in the deepest shadows, optimism shines like a guiding light—it’s the unwavering belief that circumstances can improve, no matter how challenging they appear. Optimism is a positive outlook on life that empowers you to weather storms with a hopeful spirit. It’s like possessing a sunny disposition that radiates positivity to everyone around you.

25. Responsibility: Owning Your Choices. Taking responsibility for your choices and actions is akin to being the undisputed captain of your ship. It’s about acknowledging your mistakes, learning valuable lessons from them, and recognizing that your decisions fundamentally shape the trajectory of your life. It’s like declaring, “I am the author of my own story, and I will write it with integrity and accountability.”

26. Balance: Harmony in All Things Envision life as a delicate and intricate balancing act. Balance ensures that no single area of your life unduly dominates the others. It’s about cultivating harmony across your work, relationships, and personal growth. This balance prevents burnout and empowers you to lead a truly well-rounded life. It’s like consciously juggling your priorities to maintain perfect equilibrium.

27. Focus: One Task at a Time In a world brimming with incessant distractions, focus is a veritable superpower. It’s the profound ability to concentrate intensely on one task at a time, resisting the siren call of constant interruptions. Focus dramatically enhances both productivity and effectiveness. It’s like affirming, “I will be fully present and completely engaged in what I am doing right now.”

28. Humility: Embracing Your Imperfections None of us are perfect, and that is precisely where humility finds its power. It’s like declaring, “I am flawed, and that is perfectly acceptable.” Humility involves recognizing your limitations and acknowledging that you do not possess all the answers. It’s akin to cultivating a teachable spirit, remaining open to learning from others.

29. Adapt to Change: Embrace the Flow of Life Life mirrors a river, perpetually flowing and transforming. Embracing change is akin to being a highly skilled navigator, deftly adjusting your course as circumstances dictate. Instead of resisting life’s inevitable shifts, you choose to move with the current. It’s like affirming, “I will adapt and grow with the ever-changing tides of life.”

30. Mindset: The Power of Perspective Have you ever heard the saying, “It’s all in your head”? Your mindset fundamentally shapes your reality. A growth mindset is akin to believing that consistent effort and continuous learning can significantly enhance your abilities. It’s about proclaiming, “I can develop and grow through unwavering dedication.” Your mindset has the incredible power to transform challenges into profound opportunities for personal development.

31. Self-Reflection: The Mirror of the Soul Self-reflection is akin to gazing into a mirror for your soul—it is taking dedicated time to introspect and deeply understand your thoughts, emotions, and actions. It’s like saying, “Let me truly get to know myself better.” Self-reflection fosters personal growth, empowers you to make wiser decisions, and cultivates profound inner peace.

32. Acceptance of Imperfection: Embracing Your Humanity We all make mistakes; it is an intrinsic part of the human experience. Acceptance of imperfection is akin to permitting yourself to be imperfect. It’s about saying, “I will learn from my flaws and continue to grow.” This principle profoundly reminds us that perfection is an unrealistic aspiration, and it is perfectly acceptable to stumble along life’s journey.

33. Invest in Learning: The Currency of Growth Imagine knowledge as an invaluable treasure chest, and investing in learning is akin to continuously filling it with precious jewels. It is an ongoing commitment to expanding your horizons, acquiring new skills, and embracing fresh perspectives. It’s like declaring, “I will never stop investing in myself.” Learning consistently fuels your personal growth and keeps your mind vibrant.

34. Admire Others: Recognize and Celebrate. It’s often effortless to admire the talents or achievements of others. Admiring others is akin to appreciating a truly beautiful piece of art—it’s about recognizing and celebrating the commendable qualities, skills, or accomplishments of those around you. It’s like saying, “I see your greatness, and I honor it.” Admiration fosters positive connections and encourages a truly supportive community spirit.

35. Love Unconditionally: A Heart Without Conditions Unconditional love is akin to an endless spring of affection—it is loving someone deeply without any expectations or prerequisites. It’s like proclaiming, “I love you for who you are, no matter what.” This profound principle cultivates deep connections and brings a pervasive sense of warmth and belonging into your life.

36. Cultivate Relationships: Nurturing Bonds Just as a garden requires diligent care to flourish, so too do relationships demand cultivation. Cultivating relationships is akin to tending to a beautiful garden—it involves consistently investing time and effort in nurturing connections with family, friends, and loved ones. It’s like saying, “I deeply value our bond, and I will make every effort to strengthen it.” Building meaningful relationships profoundly enriches your life and brings immense joy.

37. Punctuality: Respecting Time Time is an exceptionally precious resource, and punctuality is akin to a profound gesture of respect. Being punctual means valuing not only your own time but also the time of others. It’s like saying, “I honor our commitments by being on time.” Punctuality enhances reliability and builds strong trust within your relationships.

38. Graciousness: Poise and Elegance Graciousness is akin to performing a graceful dance in social interactions—it is maintaining your composure and elegance even when confronted with challenging situations. It’s like saying, “I will respond with grace and poise.” Graciousness radiates a profound sense of elegance and maturity, significantly enhancing your interactions with others.

39. Savor Moments: Find Joy in the Present Life is filled with countless precious moments, and savoring them is akin to slowly sipping a fine wine. It’s about fully immersing yourself in and appreciating the small, beautiful moments that often go unnoticed. It’s like saying, “This moment is a gift, and I will savor every bit of it.” Savoring these moments brings a deeper sense of contentment and mindfulness to your life.

40. Environmental Awareness: Caring for Our Planet Our planet is our shared home, and environmental awareness is akin to being a responsible caretaker. It involves making conscious choices to lessen your environmental footprint and actively protect the natural world. It’s like saying, “I will do my part to preserve the Earth for future generations.” Environmental awareness contributes to a more sustainable and healthier world for all.

41. Generosity: A Heart of Giving Generosity is akin to an overflowing fountain of kindness. It’s about freely sharing your resources, whether it be your time, your material possessions, or your support, with others, without expecting anything in return. It’s like saying, “I will spread love and abundance to those in need.” Generosity fosters a profound sense of community and goodwill.

42. Inner Peace: Harmony Within Inner peace is akin to possessing a calm oasis amidst life’s inevitable storms—it is the ability to maintain tranquility and serenity even when faced with significant challenges. It’s like saying, “I will discover solace and clarity within the depths of my being.” Inner peace significantly enhances your resilience and emotional well-being.

43. Integrity: The Pillar of Trust Integrity stands as an unwavering pillar of trustworthiness—it is about consistently aligning your actions with your values and remaining honest even when no one is observing. It’s like saying, “I will stand by my principles and always do what is right.” Integrity builds profound trust and respect in both your personal and professional relationships.

44. Calmness: Navigating Storms with Poise Calmness is akin to having a steady hand firmly at the helm during turbulent times—it is the unwavering ability to maintain composure and grace under pressure. It’s like saying, “I will keep a clear mind and a steady heart in the face of chaos.” Calmness notably enhances your decision-making abilities and leadership qualities.

45. Curiosity: Eyes Wide Open Curiosity is akin to a perpetual thirst for knowledge and understanding—it is the ardent desire to explore, to learn, and to ask insightful questions about the world around you. It’s like saying, “I will remain open to new ideas and endless possibilities.” Curiosity keeps your mind actively engaged and fosters continuous personal growth.

46. Empowerment: Unleash Your Potential Empowerment is akin to a deep wellspring of inner strength and confidence—it is recognizing your inherent abilities and actively utilizing them to achieve your goals and make a positive impact. It’s like saying, “I will harness my potential to create meaningful change.” Empowerment assists you in overcoming obstacles and challenges.

47. Resourcefulness: Adapting and Thriving Resourcefulness is akin to possessing a Swiss army knife for navigating life’s challenges—it is the remarkable ability to discover creative solutions and to maximize what you have, even with limited resources. It’s like saying, “I will adapt and discover innovative ways to overcome obstacles.” Resourcefulness significantly enhances your problem-solving skills.

48. Vulnerability: Open Heart, Open Connections Vulnerability is akin to courageously opening your heart and allowing others to witness your authentic self—it is being honest and transparent, even when it feels uncomfortable. It’s like saying, “I will embrace my imperfections and connect with others on a deeper level.” Vulnerability fosters genuine relationships and builds profound trust.

49. Balance: Mind, Body, Spirit Harmony Balance across mind, body, and spirit is akin to orchestrating a beautiful symphony of well-being—it is ensuring that your mental, physical, and spiritual health are in perfect harmony. It’s like saying, “I will nourish all aspects of my being for a holistic and fulfilling life.” This balance promotes overall wellness and profound happiness.

50. Mindful Consumption: Conscious Choices Mindful consumption is akin to being a discerning curator of your own life—it involves making conscious choices about what you consume, whether it’s food, media, or products, with a keen awareness of their impact on your well-being and the environment. It’s like saying, “I will choose wisely, aligning my values with my choices.” Mindful consumption promotes personal and global sustainability.

Lesson Twelve: The Income Statement: Your First Glimpse into a Company’s Economic Engine

By Michael Lamonaca 25 July 2025

Our “il dolce far niente” journey of discovering enduring value investments begins with a crucial financial document: the Income Statement. This statement provides a clear snapshot of a company’s operational results over a specific period, typically reported quarterly and at the close of the fiscal year. Every Income Statement is precisely labeled to indicate the timeframe it covers, offering transparent insight into performance. At its core, an Income Statement is elegantly simple, detailing the business’s revenue, from which its expenses are subtracted, ultimately revealing whether the company achieved a profit or incurred a loss.

Historically, some financial analyses focused predominantly on a company’s raw profit figures, often overlooking the deeper insights into the sustainability or quality of those earnings. This approach might consider any profitable business, regardless of its underlying economic structure. However, our disciplined investing philosophy delves much deeper. We are not just interested in whether a company made money, but how it made money, and more importantly, if it possesses the inherent strength to continue making money consistently over the long term.

Through our “il dolce far niente” lens, we recognize that businesses fundamentally fall into two distinct groups. First are those rare gems that possess a durable competitive advantage—a formidable “moat” protecting them from rivals. These are the businesses that, when acquired at a fair or better price, have the power to create exceptional long-term wealth and passive income if held with patience. The second group comprises the vast majority: mediocre businesses that constantly struggle in highly competitive markets. These, by their very nature, make poor candidates for long-term wealth creation and are typically avoided in our strategic holdings.

To identify these remarkable businesses, we meticulously examine the individual components of a company’s Income Statement. Beyond simply looking at overall profit, we scrutinize aspects such as margins, which reveal the company’s pricing power and efficiency. For the disciplined investor, understanding the source and quality of these earnings is always more important than the earnings themselves, as this insight illuminates the true nature of a company’s economic engine and its capacity for sustained financial freedom.

In upcoming lessons, we will continue to meticulously explore each critical component of a company’s financial statements. We will uncover the specific indicators that reveal whether a business is truly a golden opportunity, capable of driving long-term wealth and generating resilient passive income for your future.

Lesson Eleven: Understanding Financial Risk in Your “Il Dolce Far Niente” Journey

By Michael Lamonaca, 25 July 2025

In our pursuit of financial freedom and long-term wealth through disciplined investing, it’s essential to grasp the fundamental concept of risk. We often hear that higher risk can lead to higher potential returns, but it’s equally true that risk can lead to losing a significant portion, or even all, of your hard-earned capital. Our “il dolce far niente” approach seeks to navigate this balance by understanding and minimizing unnecessary risks, allowing our strategic holdings to compound value serenely over time and generate passive income.

To illustrate, consider a risk scale ranging from 1 to 5, where 1 represents the absolute lowest risk and 5 the highest. At the very bottom of this scale, a government bond is typically perceived as having the least risk, primarily because a government has the power to simply print more money to meet its obligations. Conversely, at the perilous peak of this risk scale, you might find something as precarious as a Ponzi scheme. When evaluating any potential investment, we always benchmark its potential return against the absolute lowest-risk alternatives, providing a foundational comparison point for our disciplined investing decisions.

Several factors contribute to financial risk, and understanding them is key to protecting your long-term wealth. One of the most common and potent causes is excessive debt, often referred to as liabilities. Debt essentially “speeds up time.” For a corporation, it allows them to acquire assets more quickly, rather than waiting to generate sufficient earnings. Similarly, an individual might take on a mortgage to own a home sooner, rather than saving the entire cash amount. There’s nothing inherently problematic about having a mortgage or a manageable amount of debt within a corporation. The critical word here is manageable. Just as an unmanageable personal mortgage can severely restrict your financial flexibility, a corporation burdened with a high amount of debt is inherently more vulnerable, particularly when economic conditions turn challenging. Our strategy prioritizes financially resilient companies that can withstand the test of time.

Another significant financial risk stems from price. Even the highest-quality asset can become a poor investment if acquired at too steep a cost. Consider the valuation of your home: it might be a beautiful, high-quality house, but there’s always a limit to what someone is genuinely willing to pay for it. The same principle applies when you buy a stock. If you pay an exorbitant price compared to the intrinsic value of the stock, your potential returns will inevitably diminish. This is precisely why we distinguish between price and true value in our approach: price is what you pay, but value is what you truly receive. Our disciplined investing seeks to acquire stocks where the inherent value is substantially greater than the market price, ensuring a strong foundation for future growth and passive income.

Finally, a profound type of risk often arises from simply not knowing what you are doing. While valuing a home might feel intuitive for most, the complexity vastly increases when dealing with stocks, which are fragments of real companies, often broken into millions or billions of pieces. Too often, investment decisions in the stock market are driven by emotion or fleeting trends rather than thorough, value investing principles, where all facts are meticulously examined. An investor who acts without genuinely understanding the underlying business and its true worth is unwittingly setting themselves up for this crucial financial risk, jeopardizing their path to financial freedom.

Lab Launch & First Patient Buys

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Hello everyone, and welcome to My Patient Investing Lab!

by Michael Lamonaca 24 July 2025

Today, I wanted to share a look at how my “il dolce far niente” portfolio is performing since its recent inception, alongside a common benchmark. As you can see from the graph, in just a couple of weeks since July 10th, our “il dolce far niente” portfolio has shown a capital gain of 12.59%. For comparison, the Betashares Australia 200 ETF (A200), which is a great, low-cost way to track the top 200 Australian companies, has shown a 1.97% gain over the same short period.

It’s important to remember that for us, capital gain or loss at this stage is largely paper profit or loss, and doesn’t hold much relevance in our long-term strategy. Our core philosophy is to “hold for life” those exceptional businesses that meet our rigorous criteria. We’re not focused on short-term market fluctuations or trying to time the next big move. Instead, we select robust companies, buy them at the right price, and then let them compound our wealth and generate passive income over decades. The real magic happens over the long haul, as our chosen businesses continue to grow and pay dividends, embodying the true spirit of money working effortlessly for us.

source by: My Patient Investing Lab:

https://www.theitalianreviews.com/2025/07/24/my-patient-investing-lab-3/