Visiting the City

It never stops, and you fear
that you let it in at your own peril, for

none of it has a thing to do
with you.

It’s just madness, too many people
in too small a place, thieves

of your peace,
if you allow.

But there is beauty there tioo,
color and energy, exotic flavors

and people you will never see
anywhere else, so

pull down your barriers,
for tonight at least, leap

into the city streets.
Be a child again, enthralled.

About this poem

I have lived in rural areas now for almost 25 years, even though most of the work I do is in cities. I just made the choice that I would rather travel a lot than live in cities. I love the peace and quiet and community of small towns and the countryside.

But unlike many who were born and raised in the country, I love cities. I love their energy, their size, their color and lights. I often linger in the city long after my work is done, sucking it all in. Very, very like a child, marveling that I get to have it all, the countryside and the cityscape, in one life.

Tom

PS – I took the picture in NYC. You can click on it for a larger version.