Surviving the City


“I am convinced the tree leads to magic faraway places and the House of Small Wonders is the gateway to wonderland itself.”

I believe the key to survival in a city like New York is to create a small community within a really big one. Identify a few friendly faces, exchange a few pleasantries and slowly build relationships around a routine. The shopkeeper at your local bodega, the resident busker at your subway stop, the person you buy coffee from in the mornings. It is these small familiarities that make a difference to your day and provide a friendly reminder that you are a real person and not an anonymous stranger lost in the hustle of city life.

My second tip to surviving the city and maintaining a functioning level of sanity, is to find a safe haven. A quiet place to retreat to when it feels like life might overwhelm you. For me, that place is The House of Small Wonders. Located in the heart of Williamsburg, I stumbled upon it one day by accident. I am sure this is how one finds most magical places. Camouflaged by an in descript brown fence, its outward appearance hides the wonder that lies within.

Once inside, you realize it is built around a large tree. I am convinced the tree leads to magic faraway places and the House of Small Wonders is the gateway to wonderland itself. It’s warm when it’s cold and cool when it’s warm. Abstract from its urban setting it feels disconnected in a good way. The skylight filters in soft light and I often close my eyes, warm my hands on a cup of tea and let the natural light and peaceful settings work their magic.

I make sure I treat myself to a visit at least once a week, sometimes twice and if I’m feeling particularly self indulgent, three times a week. They know my order by now, one chai tea and a chocolate croissant. The pastries are baked in house and I take my time, enjoying every last chocolaty morsel. They bring me the honey for my tea because they know that’s the way I like it and comment on my new summer dress. It feels nice to be recognized, even nicer to be complimented.

I have started bringing friends here. I take pleasure in their delight and enjoy sharing my special place with them. The conversation is always slow and easy. I know they are enjoying the space and recharging their batteries for the reality of the outside world.

So if curiosity gets the better of you and you happen to peek behind the fence, you might find me enjoying a cup of tea or staring up at the tree wondering what lies beyond. Remember to say hello. We can exchange a few friendly pleasantries or a passing smile or simply sit in comfortable silence, enjoying our own little safe haven, ready to take the world on once more.

TA

x

The post Surviving the City appeared first on Tempting Alice.

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