City Living

I came back to London almost two weeks ago after spending a month in Seattle. I thought coming back to the hustle and bustle of the city would be overwhelming, but instead, I fell right back into my same old rhythm. There are a few signs that indicate that I have adjusted to living in the city:

1. I have to make a serious effort to see the tourist sights of the place where I live. 

2. I no longer care if people read over my shoulder in public places. 

3. I am a master of the passive-aggressive "excuse me" or "sorry" that really means "excuse you, you're in my way you bumbling idiot!!"

4. I can walk through crowds at warp speed, deftly avoiding the foreigners rolling suitcases, people with umbrellas, and the dangerous dangling cigarettes. 

5. My proximity to the financial part of the city means that I never see children or dogs. I am not bothered by it anymore. 

6. I can finally ignore the solicitors supporting asthma research and saving the children without feeling guilty. Sorry, no thank you, and just keep walking. Last night, someone offered me a pamphlet and the first thing I said was, "Sorry, I can't. My hands are in my pockets!" That was one the man had never heard before.

7. I jaywalk. Even with the switched streets. No one in London actually waits for the green man. We are clearly above the law.