I'm Walking Here!

For as long as I can remember, I've had a love-hate relationship with New York City.

I love the fact that it's a melting pot of diverse cultures from around the world. I also like that almost everything you need is literally within walking distance of wherever you are.

What I can't stand about New York is its congestion and traffic. Anytime I'm in the city, I'm reminded of Lagos, the Nigerian city in which I was born and raised. It's just as crazy as New York - about twice the number of people and with a worse traffic congestion.

While I'm used to the crazy, fast-paced lifestyle of Lagos, it seemed for a long time that I can only tolerate such while I'm there. I was always in a hurry to leave other cities around the world which has the semblance of Lagos' lifestyle.

That's why I've always avoided New York like the plague! I don't like going there unless I absolutely have to. I even avoid the airports for connecting flights! As far as I'm concerned, LaGuardia Airport is one of the worst airports in the world.

The signs within the airport's terminals were so horrible (I've not being there in a while, so maybe it's better now) - it takes you round and round in circles. What else would you expect from an airport that's nestled in the heart of Queens, New York?

Because of all these, I was always in a hurry to leave anytime I find myself in New York.

That's until this past week.

As my family and I begin our long return trip back to Nebraska after spending a few days in New York, I'm beginning to get a better appreciation for the city.

Maybe it's because this time, I'm not dashing in to speak at an event or deliver a seminar, and then dash out as I've done a few times in the past. It could also be due to the fact that I spent the days this last week with my family taking in the city sights. Suffice to say that I have truly enjoyed my time in the Big Apple.

Still you have to be careful and watchful of traffic as you cross the streets. Sometimes you just have to stop, throw out your hands and yell in a fake New York accent . . .

I'm walking here!