Luck, Likability, & Love are bestowed to some of us in an abundance when we’re born. It seems to follow those with a charmed life well into the 40s.  Those who have done the most with the three Ls in their youth are well cared for until they take their last breath…

Others seem unable to catch a break from the time they are born.  If not for bad luck, there would be no luck at all for these souls. Love is limited. Likability is scarce, not for lack of trying but simply because those struggling are also simultaneously invisible. And surely, without the other two, it is rare that one can even muster self-love, let alone Eros. 

But all is not lost.

If by chance, they are lucky enough to get Rome, Italy, legend follows throwing three coins in the Trevi fountain promises a safe return to Rome, love, and marriage.

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Some believe the magic is in the water that comes from the former Aqua Virgo aqueduct.  Others say the enchantment and wellbeing emanate from the gods and goddesses depicted in the fountain display.

Oceanus, the god of the earth’s flowing waters, is in the center.  On his left is Abundance flanked with a horn of plenty filled with fruits and vegetables. On his right is Salubrity representing good health.

Above the goddesses’ heads, depicted in the bas-reliefs, shows the maiden’s story at the intersection of the three highways directing the soldiers towards the “virgin waters.” The one on the left shows General Marcus Agrippa giving the order to build the aqueduct.

Below Oceanus, Triton guides his seashell-shaped chariot drawn by seahorses.  The son of Neptune, Triton, is the god who controls the ocean’s waves. The waves’ temperament, calm or fierce, is shown on either side.

Harnessing good fortune from these Roman Gods and Goddesses becomes more than acquiring love and marriage but a life filled with abundance, health, and travel protection for every seafarer.  And it will only cost you three coins in the fountain to acquire a good fortune.

H/t: romanwisedotcom trevi-fountain-history for filling in the details I missed during my visit.