New York
I agree with those of you that responded in that I have mixed feelings about the future of New York. It’s safer than it’s ever been (at least in certain neighborhoods) and there are countless success stories of young entrepreneurs who were rewarded for bringing new concepts , food and stores to the city.
That being said I think there is a war going on between the old idea of New York and what it is quickly becoming. I appreciate Manhattan in particular because you can witness the full spectrum of life here on a daily basis. I came to New York in search of new opportunities , experiences, and to meet people who’s ambition and drive allowed them to accomplish unlikely things.
As neighborhoods become more and more gentrified and old businesses and families are moved out, the city has quickly become a playground for the well-to-do. Perhaps I am romancing a New York I never lived in but I really do identify with the New York I missed out on (late 90s to early 2000s). There seemed to be a boundless , reckless energy where young creative New Yorkers were able to do more with less ; creating a culture that couldn’t exist elsewhere in the world. New York is still a cultural hub and always will be. Trends and ideas here are emulated throughout this country and beyond; but New Yorkers should look outside this city and realize we are looking more like everywhere else than ever before.
