I am sitting in a restaurant at the corner of Fulton Street and Greene Avenue in Fort Greene, Brooklyn. I’m about two blocks from where I went to high school many years ago.
The neighborhood has changed. Back then you wouldn’t think about a casual walk down Fulton Street. I walked past the stairs to the subway station. Stairs I climbed twice a day for most of the four years I was at Tech. In those days it was a focused walk between the subway to the safety of the school’s doors.
I’m thankful for reconnecting with this neighborhood. I come to Brooklyn for family, culture and art…. things that add meaning and make me smile.
I’m thankful for what the neighborhood is now. I’m thankful because the neighborhood that was threatening then is inviting now.
It gives me confidence and restores my faith that, although it may take time, things do get better.
Happy Thanksgiving