“No man ever steps in the same river twice, for it’s not the same river and he’s not the same man’ - Heraclitus.
When I was 23 years old, despite lacking the necessary qualifications, I skillfully convinced my way into a job as a junior stockbroker on Wall Street & moved to a studio apartment on 170th & Broadway in New York’s infamous Washington Heights.
Ever since I watched the movie 'The Family Man' in high school, my dream had been to move to New York City & secure a job on Wall Street. Nicolas Cage's portrayal of a prosperous businessman in the bustling city left a lasting impression on me. Little did I know that his character would become my North Star. The image of donning expensive $2,000 suits, being welcomed by a doorman every morning, with a cup of coffee in one hand & the Wall Street Journal in the other, seemed like the only life worth pursuing for me.
Over the course of the next 11 years, I fully embraced the essence of being a New Yorker. I became the epitome of the city's lifestyle. I walked the streets at a brisk pace, sparing no time for idle chatter. I adorned myself in impeccably stylish attire, always striving to look my best. I possessed an innate understanding of which subway exit to take, ensuring a seamless journey to my intended location.
I dedicated myself to my work around the clock, just like many other driven New Yorkers. I indulged in the vibrant nightlife, enjoying drinks & revelry, while pursuing romantic connections. Gradually, I upgraded my living situation, bidding farewell to the roach-infested apartment in the Heights. I transitioned to a bachelor pad in the lively Lower East Side, and eventually, I found myself residing on the 34th floor of a stunning building situated in Manhattan's esteemed Upper East Side.
I had meticulously crafted the life I believed I had always desired. I had transformed into the very character from that movie I had convinced myself was a must-watch. However, life imparted upon me a crucial realization: the level of difficulty in attaining something does not inherently determine its worth. Despite successfully accomplishing all the goals I had set out to achieve, a profound sense of misery engulfed me.
In April of 2017, I made the decision to embrace a new chapter in my life. Accepting a job offer, I bid farewell to the busy streets of New York City & found solace in a beachfront apartment in Santa Monica. After enduring 11 long years in the city that never sleeps, this change represented a much-needed fresh start. It felt akin to embarking on a college journey, but this time around, I possessed the wisdom to truly appreciate & savor the experience.
Two years after relocating to LA, I stumbled upon Psychedelics, and my entire life underwent a profound transformation. Psychedelics have the power to elevate consciousness, expanding our capacity for empathy. They liberate us from the confines of ego-driven existence that often afflicts many individuals. These substances serve as a poignant reminder of our intrinsic connection with nature, revealing that we are nature. They compel us to fully embrace the present moment, liberating us from the ceaseless cycle that so many find themselves trapped in. Above all, Psychedelics infuse our existence with love & tranquility, imparting a profound sense of peace.
A month ago, life brought me back to New York City…almost exactly 6 years after I left. Being back in my former home has been an eye-opening experience. I had forgotten about so much of what happens here. Cars beeping incessantly, nonstop construction, people arguing on the subway or engaging in loud, performative conversations on their cellphones.
There is also an undeniable energy to New York City that’s captivating & quite beautiful. For better or worse, there is no other city quite like it. It has its own unique vibe. It’s own culture. And it’s one of the only places in the world you can start with nothing & leave with everything. Well, almost everything.
New York City could greatly benefit from a Psychedelic renaissance, ushering in a new era of heightened consciousness & transformative experiences. Such a movement has the potential to reshape the way people interact with one another, encouraging a shift towards deeper connections & a slower, more meaningful pace of life.
Importantly, these changes can unfold without compromising the very essence that makes New York City truly great. It's an opportunity to amplify the city's vibrancy while fostering a greater sense of empathy & unity among its inhabitants.
In an imagined New York City where Psychedelics are widely embraced, a transformative shift could occur where individuals take the time to genuinely acknowledge one another's presence. Expressing gratitude to the cashier at Starbucks would be heartfelt & sincere. Instead of engaging in arguments, people would actively listen to one another, fostering understanding & empathy. Rather than prioritizing happy hour, mushroom-fueled adventures in Central Park would become a popular alternative (a trend that is beginning to emerge). This cultural shift has the potential to create a more connected & harmonious New York City, where the power of Psychedelics fosters meaningful interactions & a deeper appreciation for one another.
I will forever hold gratitude for the invaluable experiences I had during my time in New York. The decade I spent there played a pivotal role in shaping the person I have become today. However, it was in leaving that I gleaned profound lessons that surpass the wisdom staying alone could offer. It became evident to me that the transformation I experienced is not exclusive to leaving the city. The awakening that many seek can be found by simply venturing to the other side—exploring new perspectives, embracing a less ego-driven existence, shedding anger & haste, and cultivating inner peace, kindness, and love. I embarked on this journey, and it has made all the difference.
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I’ve only been to NYC once but I think this captures it perfectly 🙏🏻
I like the point about New York City and its chaos. I sometimes think that the volume and business of a place reflects its level of consciousness.
It's a generalisation, but these environments can slip a person more easily into the trance of hustle culture and progress for the sake of progress.