The news is all over the world. Italy is in total shutdown. The move is drastic but the right thing to do. For those who travel regularly to Rome for holidays and are watching the scene unfold from afar, there is a sense of shock and sadness to see their beloved city shut down, its streets virtually deserted.
 
For those of us living here, Italians and foreign residents, it is surreal. We have become prisoners of the world's most beautiful city, proud to serve our time for the health and greater good of the country. Italy has set down a brave and grown-up example that other countries could learn from.