Walking down the streets of New York I find that everyone is hurried and rushing to get somewhere. There is always an agenda and a time constraint. The people are so caught up in the hustle and bustle that they may forget to stop, look around, and notice the beautiful things that surround them.

I am proud to say that I am not one of these people. Maybe this is due to the fact that I am not from New York and have only lived here for two months. Whatever the reason, I find it easy to stop and notice the wonderful settings and situations that surround me.

My New York City apartment faces the East River. My room has a gorgeous view of the river and the buildings on the other side of the river. Many of my peers can verify that my view of the river is nothing short of spectacular. My apartment has a lovely balcony that I step out onto daily to analyze and appreciate my surroundings.

In the morning, when I wake up early, I step outside and see the orange and pink sky as the sun rises over the water. I am not usually a “morning person” but waking up to that beautiful view every morning really puts me in a good mood. After classes I come back to my apartment and reflect on my day with a little rest and relaxation out on the balcony. The water is a deep, calming, blue. Sometimes I watch the boats as the sail. I feel the cool breeze and unwind from the stressful day of school and escape the stress and anxiety that I get from a busy day. At night the lights from the buildings reflect in the water and remind me that I am living in the city. I’m not in the suburbs of New Jersey anymore, although, with the peace and serenity that the river brings me, sometimes I forget that.

(these pictures really do not do justice to the actual setting).

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