A Letter to NYC: What This City Has Given Me.

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about New York City and what it truly means to me on a deeper level. It’s so easy to get caught up in the constant hustle—the crowded subway rides packed with strangers, the endless to-do lists that never seem to shrink, the noise that pulses from every corner, and the beautiful chaos that defines the streets—but today, I want to slow down for a moment and really reflect. I want to take a breath and write a heartfelt love letter to this city, a sincere thank-you note for all the experiences, opportunities, and moments it has given me over the years.

The Freedom to Be Myself

Moving to NYC was a leap. I wasn’t sure what I’d find, but I knew one thing: this city lets you exist fully, unapologetically. Whether you’re chasing a career, pursuing a creative passion, or just figuring out who you are, NYC gives you space to grow.

For me, that freedom has meant trying new things without hesitation—late-night coffee runs at tiny West Harlem cafés, joining community art events, wandering through museums at my own pace. I’ve learned that being seen here isn’t about fitting a mold; it’s about showing up authentically.

The People Who Change Your Life

New York is a city of connections. Some fleeting, some lasting forever. Over the years, I’ve met people who’ve inspired me, challenged me, and reminded me why I keep choosing this city. From street performers who remind me of the city’s vibrancy to my friends who keep me grounded through every change, NYC’s energy brings people together in unexpected ways.

And let’s not forget the little moments—the friendly nod from a barista who knows your usual, the neighbor who holds the elevator door, the stranger who offers a smile when the day feels heavy. These small interactions have shaped my experience here just as much as the big ones.

The Lessons Only NYC Can Teach

If New York City has a personality, it’s bold and relentless. Living here has taught me resilience in ways I couldn’t have imagined. You learn to navigate crowded streets, unexpected setbacks, and the ups and downs of city life with grace (and sometimes humor).

I’ve also learned patience in a unique NYC way—waiting for the right subway connection, the perfect latte, the quiet corner of the park amidst the chaos. The city teaches you to embrace imperfection and find beauty in the everyday moments, from a sunset over the Hudson to the late-night hum of traffic outside your window.

The Comfort of Familiar Corners

Even with all its energy, NYC has become a place of comfort for me. There’s a magic in walking familiar streets, discovering hidden cafés, and noticing little details you’ve never seen before. Places like my favorite local coffee spot, my corner bookstore, and even the streets I walk every day—they’ve become part of my story.

These small corners remind me that while the city can feel overwhelming, it also offers pockets of peace, creativity, and reflection.

Gratitude for Growth

Ultimately, what NYC has given me is growth. It’s given me courage, independence, creativity, and perspective. It’s given me experiences I wouldn’t trade for anything—the quiet mornings in Central Park, the laughter with friends at neighborhood spots, the excitement of chasing dreams.

This city can be tough. It’s noisy, busy, and sometimes unforgiving. But it also rewards authenticity, celebrates individuality, and inspires you to keep going even when things get hard. For all of that, I’m endlessly grateful.

To NYC, With Love

Thank you for letting me fall, rise, explore, and truly become who I am. You’ve shaped me in countless ways, challenged me to grow beyond my limits, and gifted me moments I’ll carry with me forever. Here’s to the streets I’ve walked, the memories I’ve made along the way, and the countless stories still waiting to unfold on this journey.

always,
— alessa xox