It’s been truly epic to have spent my mid 20’s in a major European city. I remember first leaving New Orleans feeling frustrated at the current conservative leanings of the US and the insanity of those that blindly supported George Bush’s policies. I yearned for a new perspective and London provided it. The common man was more informed and liberal thinking was the norm. Londoners are interested in life and trying new things. I’ve never taken that for granted. I’ll always miss the diversity and abundance of fun in London.

Though, it wasn’t all roses. I spent most of my 5 years there living month to month, despite earning a good salary. Money was always a problem, even after you stop the masochistic comparison to  US prices. There’s also the unexplainable sense of anger that the general population harbors. I’ve thought about and heard many explanations: the lingering class system, lack of space, unreliable public transportation, etc. I don’t think that any one thing is to blame, but the underlying discomfort and pent up aggression of its citizens is something that prevented me from ever calling London home. At best you can just smile and laugh to yourself at how childish it appears.

In the end I’ll miss the city, but most of all I’ll miss my friends. You know who you are. Building loving friendships and a personal community in a harsh city like London is profoundly meaningful. Because of you guys, this hasn’t been just another chapter. I’ll always keep in touch with you guys and you’re always welcome to come sheep herding with me in Wellington.