Over the holidays, I had the opportunity to return to one of my favorite places – New York City. New York City always reminds me of our call to be global citizens and of our resilency as American people. Plus, some of my favorite people reside in or near NYC. For the first time, I visitied the new One World Observatory at One World Trade Center in New York City. The One World Observatory is now the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.
I must admit that I was a little hesitant to visit. You see, the trip to NYC was supposed to be a celebration. I was going to celebrate my birthday with friends, see a show, visit some of my favorite sites and people, and of course, a little 5th Avenue shopping. Visiting One World Trade Center, I was afriad, would make me sad, reflective and possibly bring me down on this celebratory trip. Also, did I mention that the One World Observatory has an elevator that ascends over 100 floors in less than 60 seconds… and I’m afriad of heights?!
My friends were so excited about going so I tucked my hesitancy away, put on my big girl pants and went along for the ride. I am so glad that I did go. Both educational and the access to spectacular views from Manhattan to Jersery to Brooklyn and the Bronx; I was blown away. The experience was one of those once in a lifetime kind of experiences.
So many times God is nudging and pulling and calling us to go to places with which we are unfamiliar or uncomfortable. #GO anyway. You never know how you might be blessed or be a blessing in the midst of your going.
Jasmine Rose Smothers 