Since joining the Liberty this season, the question I get asked most often is “How do I like the city?”

I’ve paid a visit to nearly every big city in the states and lived in some of the world’s largest cities, including Istanbul, TRY and Moscow, RUS. With all the traveling I do, I’ve truly come to understand that there’s no place like home.

But now that I’ve had a chance to live in New York for a while, forget home because there’s no place like New York! A friend of mine, who hails from Harlem said, “When we’re someplace else in the world and someone asks us where we’re from, we don’t say ‘The States’ or the ‘U.S.,’ we say New York!”

Like other major cities, its got the prominent skyline, landmarks galore, and a distinctive history; but there’s something more here--an exuberant, powerful energy that sets it apart from the rest. The people are what makes this city great, and I’ve fallen head over heels for you all! I relish the cultural diversity that abounds here and completely adore the grittiness and pride that New Yorkers possess.

Just being in the city, you never know who you’re going to run into. I’ve been captivated by people and their stories all over the place! I recently met artist David Hartzel, a former swimmer and National Team member, while shopping at Saks on 5th Ave.

Immediately we hit it off, swapping stories of the sacrifice, discipline, and even pain we sometimes endure as athletes for the sake of high achievement in sport. He now creates beautiful works of art. I love the bold movement and vitality it expresses. See what you think and check out his site for yourself!

Ever heard of Matthew Long? You may be familiar with the story of the fireman and triathlete who was out riding his bike during a mass transit strike when he was struck and run over by a bus. The fact that he survived that horrific accident is a miracle, but he didn’t stop there. Matt has gone on to complete triathlons and run marathons again despite the difficulties he now faces as a special needs athlete.

Casually introduced to him the other day, I had no idea who he was or what he’d been through. Being such a genuine and down-to-Earthy guy, we hung out for about an hour before I even found out about his ordeal (and only because a friend of his told me)! His will to live and to live life abundantly has become an inspiration to many, leading him to found the IWILL Foundation. His passion is to give hope to others and help them attain their goals in the midst of adverse and challenging situations. Like so many others, I’ve been inspired by his will and am supporting him in his cause to pass that on to others! Take a moment to watch the videos and check out the IWILL foundation. You’ll be inspired to persevere in whatever your goals may be.

The success rate of having all these wonderful encounters could simply be due to the fact that I’m emitting the whole tourist--help me, I’m lost--vibe, but that’s debatable. For now, I’m going to chalk it up to the fact that I’ve experienced the true essence of real New Yorkers. I can’t wait to see who I cross paths with next.

-NP

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