I missed my family. I never realized it until I walked through the door of their Bethlehem Victorian house this Christmas eve, but there was this palpable feeling of contentment as I walked through the door.
They know about my relationship situation (I don't feel like going into detail here, so I'll sum up: she cheated on me, lied, tried to make me feel like it was my fault, lied some more, and now we're broken up), and were very comforting the entire time I was home.
It was easily the best Christmas I've ever had back in the Lehigh Valley. For once, leaving the Valley and going back to Boston actually kind of depressed me. I feel like my life in this city is pretty much over. Greg is gone (former roommate and former friend, and yet another story I don't feel like detailing right now). Kat is in the process of leaving, and she's taking the dog with her. I still have a lot of good friends here, but lately it feels like my job is the only thing keeping me here. If I get into either Temple or Drexel law, I'm gone. If I end up only getting into Suffolk or NESL, I guess I'll stay in Boston until I get my JD. But right now, I think I just need a change of scenery more than anything. I don't need to forget any of what's happened. I just need to learn from it and move on.
Philly is kind of a mess right now, but I want to go into public service to get my hands dirty. If there's any city where my help is more needed than anywhere else, it's in Philly. It's going to take idealists, intellectuals and a few hard workers to help make that city better, but I think it can be done. There is a certain "we're all in it together" feeling in Philly that is unlike other East Coast cities (at least from my experience, and the second-hand stories from friends). If I really want to work somewhere where my work will be both in need, and personally rewarding, I think Philly is where I am needed. And it's where I want to be.
Thanks to Shannon, Brett and Will for reminding me why I love the place so much. You guys make it easier for me to want to call it home.
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It was so awesome to see you! I'm very excited about the idea of you coming to school here, as it will be nice for me to have someone who is also idealistic and caring to talk school and politics with. I think there is a certain understanding of Philly politics that one can only obtain while growing up in the area, and being emotionally attached to the issues, and I think that the fact that you have those qualities would make you a very positive edition to the area. I also like it that Brett lights up like an Xmas tree when you are around. Of all of the friends I have made through our relationship, I have the best memory of meeting you at Rich's wedding and seeing Brett interact with you. If you must stay in Boston for school, then you MUST come visit for more than a few hours.
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