A letter to NY...

Dear New York,

It has been one year since I took that crazy leap of faith (again) and left everyone and everything I call home and decided to try and call you home. Over the years I have been lucky enough to have frequented your streets, explore your neighbourhoods and revel in your icons as a visitor. But never in a million years did I ever think I would live here, yet here I am.

It would be so easy to focus on the differences that exist between us. You talk faster than I do, think faster and walk faster than I do so inevitably sometimes there is some miscommunication. But that’s normal at the start of any new relationship. Unexpectedly, your sometimes overwhelming and anxiety-provoking hustle culture has brought out the best in me - and the Australian in me 😊. It has forced me to breathe more, slow down and remember not to take it all too seriously. Thank you for that by the way.

One year on, I am still in awe of the way your magical skyline glows in the warmth of the summer and the rainbow trees that emerge during the autumn. Even in the biting cold winters, you light up with festive cheer.

You have this way of bringing out the loneliness in people and at the same time making everyone feel like they belong. And in the last few months, I have seen a different side of you. You are kinder, more patient and compassionate. I like this side of you. I am sorry it has taken so much pain, loss and suffering for us to see you like this.

I love that I get to call your streets my streets, your iconic parks my backyard and my gym - at times an oasis, an escape from your concrete jungle. But all the beggars, they make me sad. They are a symbol of how much brokenness and poverty exists in you. A constant reminder of how fortunate I am to have good health, a roof over my head, an income and people who care about me.

And of course, most importantly, there are the people who care, old friends and new, the ones who made their homes mine. The ones who became family while mine are far, and the ones who just check-in. You are the very reason that this last year has been epic. I am so grateful for you all.

New York, this year has been challenging and fun - filled with great opportunities. I can’t wait to see what new adventures are in store for us.

Love, Racheli