Thursday, February 27, 2014

Love and Hate

     I was born and raised in New York City. I love where I come from, but it isn’t easy growing up here. People here are tough and there’s a ton of violence, but it feels as if something is holding me here. My heart is here.

     As a mother I no longer am living for myself, but for my children. Although I still have a lot of growing up to do, I’m not worried about myself. I want to make sure I raise great little people that are ready for the world. The environment they live in has a lot to do with their character when they get older. Living in New York City gives you tough skin. Nasty looks and cruel comments don’t affect me. That’s one trait I don’t mind my children gaining from living in New York City, but I don’t want them to think everyone is like that.

     As a child we would frequently visit Orlando, Florida. People over there were so nice. Everyone greeted you with a smile and seemed so happy. That’s what I think of when thinking back to when I was there (not so much the case now).  I remember riding my cousin’s bike around the dead end street, playing on their lawn and jumping off the diving board in their pool in their backyard. I have always said I want that and more for my kids.

     I want to own a home, but New York City is expensive. I want to live in a safe neighborhood, but the violence in New York City is insane. For instance, up the block from where I live a woman was beat with sticks and robbed for her phone by three other women (“NYPD: 3 suspects Assaulted, Robbed Victim At Bronx Park”). This took place at the park I would go to almost every day with my two young children. Since then I visit less or make sure my husband accompanies us. I don’t want my children experiencing these things. I understand violence happens everywhere but I don’t want to live where it occurs most.  

     Not all is bad in New York City. They say New York is the land of opportunities which I believe is true, but nothing is handed to you. I am 25 years old and run a cake decorating business. I’ve worked very hard to get where I am now (which is not even close to where I’d like to be). Competition in New York City is very real! People here don’t mind stepping on you to get ahead, but that’s my opinion. Even with the competition I have managed to become quite successful. There’s money here and people don’t mind paying big bucks for small things. My sister tried to start the same business in Florida and was unsuccessful. Florida may be beautiful but you won’t make the same money you make here over there unless you’re lucky.
 
     To sum it up, I love living New York City, but if I can take bits and pieces of others places I would. You can say I have a love and hate relationship with my city.
 
Work cited

 “NYPD: 3 suspects Assaulted, Robbed Victim At Bronx Park”. www.newyork.cbslocal.com. July 1, 2013. CBS Local Media. Web February 27, 2014

No comments:

Post a Comment