Sunday, November 29, 2009

The City from Central Park...a trigger for conversation.

To be able to sit in the peacefulness of a park and view the City from a distance is one of the great things about Central Park...or any city park for that matter. I always think about the lights that are on in the skyscrapers...how many families are at home waiting for their spouse or their mom or their dad. A city like New York never sleeps...one civilization leaves at 5:00pm and another civilization fills the void. The two passing on the freeways and sidewalks often times never stopping to inquire about each others lives...too many things to do, a timetable to keep.

One thing I have always noticed about New York however is that the people on the street for the most part do not live up to their reputations. New Yorkers like the reputation of how they live on the front edge of culture, in the know, too busy for the tourists. The stereotypical in your face, short fuse is not what I have seen. Whether it is asking for direction on the subway at 3:00am or for directions to the nearest Starbucks...they are always more than willing to help and outgoing...once you approach them. I think that is the key...the visitor makes the first move. Without that first move towards a conversation, they continue towards their destination impervious to those around them. That is just the character of a city. I respect them for it and appreciate the great New Yorkers I have met.

Dan

13 comments:

shabby girl said...

Beautiful photograph! Is Central Park a place to be at night? Maybe I watch too many movies where bad things happen...to people...walking...in the dark!

Dan Felstead said...

Shabbygirl...I don't think you have been watching too many movies! I have been in Central Park at night but only on the outer edges...I wouldn't venture into the park to deep...too many places for people to hide that may not have your best interests in mind!

Dan

septembermom said...

There are many interesting conversations waiting to be heard by the curious bystander in NY. When I worked in the city, I used to enjoy meeting all sorts of people during my lunch time walks. I miss those days.

Great photo Dan!

Sunny said...

Dan, you are absolutely right. A city park is the place to escape rush and "stand and stare" for a while. I used to love it. Unfortunatelly, these days there seems to be no time at all.

Cynthia L. H. said...

It looks like a rare, peaceful moment.

Dan Felstead said...

Septembermom..I envy you. I would like to have a chance to work in the city for a short time just for the experience. It would be pretty exciting for a Midwest boy!

Dan

Dan Felstead said...

Sunny don't you wish we had the time!

Dan

Dan Felstead said...

Cynthia...it was peaceful to be able to be at a distance and view the city.

Dan

Dan Felstead said...

Sunny from St. Petersburgh...by the way it is great to hear from you again...long time no hear! How are things going for you?

Dan

The Lly Dilettante said...

This is so cool. Love it.

Sunny said...

I love the shades of twilight, and all the various textures. The red cap is perfect!
It's been a while since I've been to NYC; I think I've become a country bumpkin!!
Sunny :)

Dan Felstead said...

Thanks Lly...I am sure you have some really nice skylines in Italy as well!

Dan

Dan Felstead said...

Sunny...I have become a "bumpkin" as well! I miss the city.

Dan