Nostalgia and Reality: My Journey from Detroit to New York

As a 43-year Green Card holder and soon-to-be US citizen, my journey to the American dream has been a blend of excitement and nostalgia. My maternal German Swiss family owns a business in New York, and my husband, who has companies in London, Israel, and several businesses in the US and Europe, has funded my dream company in the city. Our properties in New York, Cleveland, Kansas City, Miami, and Palm Beach, along with his companies, have helped us solidify our presence in the United States.

The City I Left Behind: Detroit

I grew up in Detroit, a city that holds a special place in my heart but one I do not miss much. Sure, there were some nice things about it, like its vibrant neighborhoods and cultural richness, but I spent years coping with existential loneliness there. The city has since transformed, and while it has grown to have 250,000 people, it has also become unsightly and unrecognizable. I miss the small town I used to live in, where my town once had 15,000 residents and now has more than 250,000. It is a stark contrast to what it once was.

Chicago: A Vibrant Metropolis

On the flip side, I spent significant time in Chicago and miss its vibrant energy. Despite the unpredictability of life in a major city, Chicago's cultural diversions, such as its theater, Ravinia, the Botanic Garden, bike trails, and parks, keep me engaged. Even events like Bike the Drive or Lollapalooza are part of the fabric of the city’s identity. The city's vibrancy is something that can’t be easily replicated, and I cherish the memories I have there.

New York: An Incredible Tier 1 City

Now, I have settled in New York, a city that is simultaneously incredible and unpredictable. The daily uncertainty of life in a Tier 1 city is daunting, and the unpredictability can be overwhelming. The city feels like a high-stakes game with no one to help if things go wrong. Despite these challenges, New York is a place of endless opportunities, and the chance to live the American dream is a privilege that I am immensely grateful for.

The Downsides of New York Life

Of course, the downsides are significant. The peace and forests that I once enjoyed are far from my current reality. The heat in New York can be suffocating, and the perfect blue sea is a distant memory, replaced by the chaos of city life. There are gangs and a sense of unpredictability that can be unsettling. Additionally, the weather can be violent, much like in Tornado Alley, and the city's architecture can be a constant source of frustration.

The Contrast Between Los Angeles and New York

My current hometown, though similar to Los Angeles, offers a stark contrast. No traffic, no Mexicans, fewer stores, and a more laid-back vibe define the city. The weather is more temperamental than in Tornado Alley, but the environment is more forgiving. Nonetheless, the integration of a bustling city with fewer of the characteristics that make Los Angeles unique presents a different set of challenges.

Conclusion

The journey from Detroit to New York has been a profound one. It is filled with nostalgia for the loss of the small-town life, the vibrancy of Chicago, and the excitement of the American dream. While the unpredictability of life in Tier 1 cities can be daunting, the opportunities and experiences are unparalleled. The city is a mix of peace and chaos, and the contrast between Los Angeles and New York highlights the unique challenges and rewards of each.