"Welcome to NY State!" I proclaimed as we crossed the border. After only two and a half days of driving we had made it. Bryan, sitting next to me, looked exhausted but relieved to finally start a life together. With Jeeves, the Guinea Pig, on my lap in a blanket with a handful of carrots I sighed because our work was finally paying off. Finally being in such an open and expressive city, allowed us to breathe freely and enjoy who we are. No one has ever said moving, especially across the country, and particularly to New York City, was an easy feat, but we were (and still are) determined.
We didn't come with plans, nor a lot of money, just a dream and an AirBnB for a few weeks in Washington Heights. As newlyweds, we believed we could accomplish anything and I believe we can. This article is not about how we made it these past few months, and is most certainly not a '10 Tips for Success' article, but I want to share my experience so that if you decide to follow many other ambitious humans to this city of dreamers, you know you're not alone.
Feelings, people and new things:
The premier emotion I encountered was not being overwhelmed or feeling like I was drowning, but instead it was like I was hallucinating. I couldn't wrap my head around the vastness of the city for a few days.
Culture shock was something I was familiar with, having studied abroad in Aix-en-Provence, France, traveling around the continent while I was there and not knowing anyone when I arrived, I knew it would be a whirlwind. However, moving to NYC was different. Culture shock, yet everything was like it has always been. I knew the language, and had studied maps of the boroughs and neighborhoods, so I couldn't understand why I felt lost.
I always have identified as a fighter, egalitarian, and a feminist rather than a lover and have watched out for myself and others. So when I realized why I felt this way, I knew that moving had matured me overnight. I had a profound sense of dread and fear of failing to successfully manage the responsibilities of taking care of my small family in our cement jungle.
Feeling at home:
Now having gained some leverage, some friends, and a net of relationships in school and work I feel more grounded. Actually no, I feel suspended. I feel like I have developed my web of support and I can maintain my family's and my personal balance within the web. However I know that a raindrop can shatter it. New York's plethora of tough, cold-shouldered people has taught me and helped me develop my goals because I have to maintain blinders to see my track and to see through the crowds. The raindrop that I fear is that everyone is also all climbing the ladders that lead to my dreams, our dreams. Remaining unique and not falling in with the crowds of drones in New York City is easy, however it is a challenge to not let it distract you.
New York is confusing, loud, and at times overbearing, but everyone experiences that too. No one cares, but everyone knows how you feel and learning that for myself is comforting. So for you, reader, know that you are never alone.
