To New York, with love

Oh, New York.

Before you, I didn’t realize it was possible to be utterly seduced, swept off your feet by a city.

I know I’m not the first to declare “I’m smitten!” and I certainly won’t be the last.

But like everyone who falls under your spell, I can’t help but feel that our relationship was special, somehow more meaningful.

Don’t you remember when we took the elevator to the rooftop of the New Museum and I traced your glittering silhouette against an inky night sky? And what about that time we sat in Washington Square at dusk and watched fireflies flicker friendly hello and that guy came by on his bike and chalked the word “LOVE” on the ground in front of our bench?

If the scenes feel trite on paper, they were no less magical in the moment.

~

New Yorkers are, above all else, strivers. We’re not sure exactly what we want but we know it’s something better than what we have now. So we push ourselves to be the best we can humanly be and steer clear of introducing the word tradeoff into our vocabulary. Happiness awaits just as soon as we can get that next promotion, move into that dream Village apartment, find that perfect someone.

The city gives us an antidote if we pause long enough to take note. You’ll never find a more welcoming or accessible place to explore your interests, immerse yourself in a passion, and build a network of supportive friends. Throw yourself into every experience and, most importantly, savor the moment. Pay attention to what inspires you, what tires you, who are the doers and who are the talkers. Figure out what personal success and happiness mean to you.

Thank you, New York, for the reminder to stay astoundable, the opportunity to push beyond the familiar, the chance to try on alternate futures for size. You’ll always hold a special place in my heart.