Am I really a city person?

As I was walking home this afternoon, after a delicious lunch at Goodwin's with my cousin Shana, I found myself behind two women who were clearly not residents of Chicago. How can I tell? Well, it's easy to spot a visitor. Usually their pace gives it away, and since I walk super fast (according to everyone who's ever walked next to me), I usually pass them. And if that's not enough, tourists' heads are typically tilted back as they view the massive buildings. They're usually carrying a camera, looking slightly confused and overwhelmed. It's these people that really make me feel fortunate to be in a city that people flock to. Anyway, I heard one of the women say, "I'm just not a city person." Which got me to thinking; am I really a city person? 


Well, yes and no. If you haven't noticed, I like to keep to myself. You'll never find me in the bars or out with friends. Mainly because I don't find pure happiness there. I don't get enjoyment from spending time with people who don't truly care about me, and I definitely don't see anything positive about wasting precious time doing things that don't make me a better person. So, for that reason, I am not a city person. Since the city offers so much nightlife and activity, it's great for people who are into the whole social scene. And good for them. However, that doesn't mean that I don't enjoy different aspects of the city. Since moving here I've spent more time exploring and soaking up the things that I find appealing and inspirational; something else the city is full of. I've been so enthralled by the people here and I think it's safe to say I've seen every kind. I've been amazed by the architecture and the city itself and still find myself gazing out of my window, just like I did on the day I moved here. 


Something about the "big city" always intrigued me and I think I know why; because it's different and makes me uncomfortable. My whole life I've been comfortable and safe and average. By being here I've opened a completely different door, forcing me to explore this new world and learn about myself in the process. This past year has been more of a mental experience than a physical experience, and I wouldn't change that for anything. For that reason, I am a city person.


But, I still think these 2 years will be enough for me.