For the most part, I think love at first sight is a whole lot of BS. As human beings, outermost appearances typically deceive us, leading us down a dangerous path of betrayal.
My first trip to New York City, however, changed my mind completely.
In this instance, it really was love at first sight. I don't know whether it was my binge-watching "Gossip Girl" and wanting to be the real Serena van der Woodsen that did it to me, or "Empire State of Mind" playing on repeat throughout my trip, but New York City did it.
New York City stole my heart.
In my mind, New York City symbolizes endless opportunity. Looking out at the Statue of Liberty on Ellis island, I'm reminded of the millions of immigrants who came to America through the ports and harbors, millions of whom chose to stay in "The Capital of the World" to work impossibly hard for a better life. Those immigrants made New York what it is today: filled to the brim with diversity in cuisine, clothing, careers and lifestyle. Those immigrants created the greatest city in all the world.
In the words of Frank Sinatra, "If I can make it there, I'll make it anywhere."
Truer words were never sung.
There's something about the City that makes me feel really, truly and completely invincible. The bright, colorful lights ignite a fire beneath me, inspiring me with every step I take. I want to move faster and faster and faster until I'm running, never stopping until I reach my destination, my goal, my dream - wherever those things may be. New York City makes me feel invincible, as though I'm capable of doing anything and everything.
I never knew it was possible to feel this passionately about a place, but, really, it is. New York City stands for the freedoms and future of our country. It represents hard work and promise. It epitomizes the American dream. It truly is magical. So, whatever you call it, "The Big Apple," "The City That Never Sleeps," "New York, New York," or "The Big City," there's one thing that remains the same: New York City really is the greatest city in the world.
