Monday Musings

In a prepandemic era I usually spent my Sundays of Advent in the pews of Old St. Patrick's Cathedral, but this year I spent yesterday worshiping at the alter of Bergdorf Goodman and the boutiques of Madison Avenue. Admittedly I checked off a sizable portion of my holiday shopping while taking advantage of the bargains of Black Friday but made a personal promise to complete the rest by patronizing small businesses. My rationale was two-fold, to support struggling, locally owned shops that have been hit hardest in 2020, and also to really immerse in the festive spirit. There truly is nothing more magical than sifting through delicate trinkets, Sant Amerous almond milk latte in hand, while Nat King Cole plays in the distance. And while the 60 degree temperatures made Manhattan feel less like The North Pole, and more like Los Angeles, the spirit of the season abound. 

 It's this time of year that reminds me of why I first fell in love with this city. As a child, I would make an annual pilgrimage to marvel at lifelike mannequins at Saks and glittering twinkle lights adorning Fifth Avenue. I can remember, during my first trip, staring up at the giant Rockefeller Christmas Tree and vowing that one day this magical place would become my home. As I exited my final destination yesterday I paused briefly, and recalled that young girl in awe of this city and felt a moment of glee as I realized her dream came true. Not a day goes by that I don't feel lucky to call Manhattan my home and that feels particularly poignant this season of this year. It's been a difficult one, and will likely continue to be, for New York but it's a true testament to the spirit of this beautiful place that is perseveres. 

While this year may feel particularly melancholy, channel the spirit of New York, take solace in the fact that vaccines are beginning to be administered today, and remember that dreams still come true. And when all else fails, listen to the line from my personal favorite Christmas song, "Someday soon we all will be together, if the fates allow".