Thursday, July 16, 2015

lucky me

I am meeting Julie before a screening of Woody Allen's Irrational Man

We decide to meet somewhere near Lincoln Center. I get there early, and there, at 66th and Columbus, are all these tables set up in a triangular island between Columbus and Broadway. The island is surrounded on all sides by city traffic. Along with the tables are different vendors selling breads, pastries, fresh fruit, vegetables, and homemade jams.  It's a small farmer's market in the middle of thriving Manhattan. I call Julie and that's where we meet for a quick BYO dinner.

We go to our screening. Something I do regularly. But still, this frequent activity is somewhat unique to this city, along with LA and London.

After the movie, Julie goes to her car, as she is driving back to Connecticut. I walk along Central Park. The sun has set but the dark blue sky is perfectly offset by the deep greens of the city trees. Across the street the American Museum of Natural History appears to be open, as I see people leaving it.



I am not unique. 1.6 million people live in Manhattan. It is the most densely populated county in the United States. Many would hate living here. I'm not one of them.

Stumbling on a Farmer's Market. Going to a private screening. Having a 1.3 mile urban park that will never be converted to homes or offices. Exeriencing some of the country's best museums. Being able to walk everywhere. Feeling safe. Loving the diversity. 

I never take it for granted. 

I envy my friend's son who just found an incredible two-bedroom apartment in a great area of downtown Chicago for $2600/ month.  I wish sometimes I could just get in a car, parked outside my home, and go for a ride. Or own a big dog that had a backyard to play in. Or dip my toes in the Atlantic Ocean, a short walk from my home.

But the envy never lasts long.

I feel lucky to live in Manhattan, and can't imagine calling any other place home.

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