To anyone who hasn’t experienced life in New York City, but finds the idea crossing their mind: you can make it happen. You should. It has the potential to change your life. It will transform who you are, and you’ll love every bit of who you become.

To those who have not only had the thought, but have a burning desire to be in New York City, all of the above. Embrace the challenge. You belong here. 

To those who have recently decided  to make New York City your home, whether for a brief chapter or for a long-term journey, congratulations on embarking on what could be one of the best and most transformative decisions of your life. Enough said. Welcome to the city.

To those who have decided to leave New York City, this city is what it is because you were a part of it. You added more to NYC by being here than you can imagine. I encourage you to carry the spirit of New York City with you, as those who are surrounded by you will benefit from the attributes you’ve developed from being here. Leaving New York is never simple, but remember, it always has a way of welcoming you back. Until then, a part of who you are will always remain in NYC, and as long as you want it to, a part of NYC will always remain in you. 

Finally, to those living the electrifying energy of New York City here and now, I’m thrilled we are able to experience the profound beauty of this city alongside each other. Regardless of who you are and how different we may be from each other, our shared experience of NYC unites us in an incredibly unique way.

Let’s continue to face challenges with gratitude, amongst the resilience that is required to be here.

Let’s continue to chase our dreams, or better, recognize we are living them.

Let’s continue to seize the unparalleled opportunity that surrounds us with every street we walk.

Let’s continue to rediscover new versions of ourselves with every decision we make, and let’s grow.

To live in New York City, as I have learned, is one of the greatest blessings of a lifetime. 

Thank you for being here, and for being such an important part of this collective experience for all of us.