The rain taps lightly against the open windows as the evening settles in. The living room is a chaotic blend of dishes, laundry, and toys, a visual testament to a busy day. For the first time in what feels like forever, the house is enveloped in silence. It’s unsettling at first, prompting me to check on the kids—three vibrant, curious little redheads—before I can finally exhale. They are all peacefully asleep, and I can’t help but marvel at their stillness. Given their endless curiosity about everything from breakfast cereal to pirates, it’s astonishing to see them resting. I can’t help but wonder what dreams fill their minds at night.
Each child has a unique personality that shines through even in sleep. As I reflect on the lessons I impart during the day—use your napkin, wash your hands, brush your teeth—I ponder their long-term significance. Sure, they are important for everyday hygiene, but what truly matters is the essence of life—the questions, the ideas, the dreams.
What do I want to teach them? It’s simple: Go to New York.
In your twenties, embrace that adventure. Feel the uncertainty that greets you as you pack your bag and set off into the unknown. Understand that life often dwells in the gray area. Will you fight or flee when faced with uncertainty? Will you embrace the challenges that lie ahead, knowing that the journey will be tough but rewarding?
Learn to live frugally. It’s likely you’ll find yourself in a cozy, albeit cramped, New York walk-up, making every dollar stretch. You’ll become a master at creating delicious meals out of seemingly nothing—think five pieces of pasta and a slice of cheese!
Walk everywhere. Familiarize yourself with the city’s grid; it will guide you in more ways than one. As you walk, remind yourself of your smallness in the grand scheme of things. Embrace humility, but also walk with pride knowing you’re navigating life in one of the world’s most vibrant cities.
Savor brunch as if it were a sacred ritual. Wait hours for that delectable Strawberry Butter. Find a local diner, form a friendship with the owner, and indulge in late-night cheese fries when you’re not ready to call it a night.
Karaoke? Don’t think about it—just dive in. Close your eyes and sing like your heart might burst. Start with something classic like Neil Diamond.
Stay curious. Embrace your own smallness and learn from the brilliance surrounding you in libraries, museums, and schools. Keep up with the fast-paced city life—if you don’t, you might just get trampled in the morning rush.
Face your fears head-on. Go on that blind date, take that trapeze lesson, try that new Korean BBQ spot. Push your limits and discover just how capable you are. Become the person who can handle anything, even if it means working around the clock to prove it.
But also, don’t forget to be lazy sometimes. On those rare, beautiful summer days, head to Sheep’s Meadow in Central Park, lie back, and soak in the enormity of the city and your own existence within it.
Treat yourself. Purchase those shoes that catch your eye, even if they don’t seem “you.” Trust the whispers of your friends—they know you better than you think.
Run around the Central Park reservoir, letting the rhythm of your heart guide you. Imagine yourself as the protagonist in the stories that unfold right where you stand. Your city is your stage.
Celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, and don’t be afraid to feel a little crazy while doing it. Take a few days off work and play tourist in your own city. Visit the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building; experience the touristy magic in your own backyard.
Go to Union Square, watch street performers, and browse the farmers market. Find joy in the simple pleasures—grab a bagel, some coffee, and a bench to sit and watch life unfold around you.
Street fairs? Don’t miss them! Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and the little treasures you can find, including a must-try Mozzarepa.
Stand where the towers once loomed. Pay your respects, and feel the weight of history. Ride the subway, observe your surroundings, and resist the urge to tune out. Engage with those around you; you might discover something beautiful.
Buy the New York Post if you must—at 25 cents, it’s a guilty pleasure worth indulging in, especially for the Page Six gossip.
Walk the High Line and experience the unique perspective of the city beneath your feet while blending into the skyline above. Open your heart to the possibility of love, even if it’s just for the city itself.
Embrace the contradictions that make you, you. Learn to love every part of yourself, even the parts that don’t seem to fit together. Whether you stay to build a family or leave after a few months, depart with a piece of New York etched into your heart.
So there you have it, my life lessons wrapped into one small package: Kids, go to New York.