Sunday, October 25, 2009
10/25/2009
Well folks, it's official: My days as a New Yorker are numbered. In roughly four weeks, I will be starting a new adventure in the Pacific Northwest - Seattle, to be specific. I've been offered a job there with an up-and-coming market research firm, and am excited to say that I am accepting the offer.
Knowing now that the current chapter of my life is coming to a close, I can't help but reflect on everything that has happened here since arriving in May 2006. In many ways, I barely recognize the young man who landed here with two large boxes of belongings, a set of golf clubs and romanticized expectations. At one point, I almost lost all touch with that person. However, thanks to a few very special people, I leave here not a different person altogether, but simply a changed one. And changed, I hope, for the better.
I will remember New York has a harshly paternalistic city: One that threw me into the deep end and forced me to swim, or drown. We've butted heads a few times, but after all is said and done I will always be thankful for the experiences I have had here. They will undoubtedly have an impact on how I perceive my surroundings for the rest of my life. After all, there's no other basis for comparison quite like New York City... or is it simply incomparable?
This will be the city that taught me the importance of financial planning (which is a bit ironic, considering the almighty Wall Street's recent failures)... of making nutritious eating and exercise an irremovable priority... of making time to try new things and participate in the old ones I should never allow to fade out of my life. And when it comes to love - and those of you who know much about me know that my heart tends to make its position on matters heard loud and clearly - New York will be the setting I remember behind both the great heights and low depths love can embody. In more than a few ways, I will likely not encounter such an onslaught of life lessons as I have had to face these last few formative years. And so New York, despite your faults, I can only thank you and leave with a smile on my face.
I have purchased a new moleskine to carry around with me during these next few weeks, as I expect a rush of sentiments, memories and thoughts to fill my head as I prepare for my departure. Sooner rather than later, I hope to share some of them here. Until then, be well.
4 comments:
You're so sentimental. I heart you.
PS - is your new company helping you with finding a place? If you need someone to make sure a place you found online isn't a scam (like almost happened with Josh and I moving here), let me know and I can ask my friend to take a look and meet someone. Also, did you ever meet my RA friends Craig and Krystle? They're also in Seattle.
You'll love it out here! Seattle is ideal for introspective sorts like you. :)
Good luck Brodes! Always wishing you the best.
You have done what others regret never having the courage to do. You have jumped with both feet into an adventure on the other side of the country.
I hope you find as much personal growth in Seattle.
"Live in New York City once, but leave before it makes you hard. Live in Northern California once, but leave before it makes you soft."
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