I felt the energy the minute I exited JFK. Like a dip in a cold plunge, my body tightened and my mood lifted. I slammed the yellow cab door and was on my way.

As we approached the tunnels and the bridges to Manhattan I saw the grey skyline clashing against the cloudless blue skies. Here it was again—the unbearable beauty of New York City. 

Its radiance, its verticality, and its depth.

I decided to cancel my afternoon plans. I’d just walk around and take it in. I had forgotten how long I hadn’t been here. I didn’t really know why, but I was terrified at the idea of coming back. 

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