Coming from a small town and flying across the U.S. to Philadelphia, Pa., was like passing through a portal and ending up in a different world. Tumbleweeds, dirt roads, and wind were definitely something I did not run in to as we all do here in Kansas. I knew I was going to such a big and busy city, but I didn’t know what wonder it had for me to see. I could not wait to ride the bus or subway and feel the rush of it all. Arriving there, the people, places, and things were all different.

Big city streets filled with city lights and thousands of unrecognizable faces, faces we will possibly never see again. That’s the thing with big cities; there are so many people and places we might not cross over for a second time. When being in a big city my motto is “Do not look like a tourist, act natural, we have to blend in.” Jokingly stepping away from the crowd to be like everyone else and not looking around the city in awe. Everyone always seems so busy and so proper at most times. People rushing to work while others stand on the sidewalk waiting for a taxi or bus very impatiently. When it was finally time to ride the bus, we jumped on anxiously. After a while, I could not wait to get right back off. Exhausting it was is all I can say. When we got off there were angry, happy, and confused faces all over.

Being in the presence of such a huge place brings a kind of feeling I can only handle for a certain amount of time. So much to see in so little time. Walking down the sidewalks of downtown and looking up at the buildings so amazed at the time and effort people like ourselves put to make these facilities. I then look back down at the sound of a guitar playing beautiful melodies for any amount of change a talented person can receive for a living. Out of so many people crossing our paths, it’s surprising how many humbled hearts can be observed by simple actions.

Turning to my right and seeing a long path of brick road with an old street lamp and leaves on the ground. Fall appears to be visiting during this time. The leaves all different colors. Red, purple, yellow, orange, green, all in different shades of their own color. The sun is slowly being covered by the gloomy clouds. The air is chilly, yet comfortable. Random people asleep on park benches covered from head to toe trying to fall asleep. Awkward stares from strangers and as I look at them all I am thinking is, do they feel the same way I am feeling right now? Being around unbelievable things, I am overwhelmed, are they? As the walk proceeds, passing by townhouses along the sidewalk and observing the way everyone is so different by the way everything is decorated from the door to what is sitting on the porch.

The night is dragging its way along and the moon is out lighting up the paths we walk in. The sounds of leaves cracking as they are being stepped on is my favorite part. It is somehow relaxing. The best part of any place for me, big or small, is the sites. Whether it’s a huge building not seen in our everyday lives to a simple tree in different stages as the seasons change.

As I experienced those different feelings in Philadelphia, I realized it was not just the big city that amazed me; it was the little details within the city. Seeing different objects and people in our everyday lives can be enjoyed in many ways as well. It does not necessarily have to be in the presence of the big city life. I enjoy driving my own vehicle then riding a bus. It isn’t so bad seeing tumbleweeds or dirt roads on the daily. Although it doesn’t hurt to experience something different every now and then. We all have to use that big imagination we have to enjoy the place we live in.

It feels nice to be home.