It has been a year since I came back from Glasgow, after completing my Masters Degree, and I still haven't been able to get over missing the place. I think that one year, for so many reasons, was one of the happiest of my life. So, in an attempt to get it out of my system ( though I really don't think it is going to happen :D), here are the reasons Glasgow really did become my second home:
Firstly, the people I met. This was the first time I'd lived away from home for any length of time, and that encouraged me to get out of my shell, and meet other people, not just from my country, but from many others as well. I ended up very lucky in the friends I made, from wonderful flatmates who became my best friends, classmates with whom I could have many interesting conversations, and other friends I made along the way, from many nationalities and disciplines. There was truly, something to learn from everyone.
Then, there were the Scottish people themselves. Unlike in India, where one does not strike up conversations with strangers very often, the locals were extremely friendly to friends and strangers alike, and I ended up having conversations quite naturally, with people in supermarkets, and with those who would come and sit down next to me in the park.
Secondly, the place. Glasgow is one of the greenest and most beautiful places I've ever seen. One does not really feel like travelling in cars or buses. Most places are near enough to walk to, and because of the clean pollution-free air, walks are more a delight than anything else. Each part of Glasgow has its own charm, the bustling city centre, the old-world elegance and snobbishness of the West End, the docks, and so many others. Getting lost in Glasgow, or walking around the city at night was never a worry somehow.It just felt safe.
My favourite place was a public park which was my sanctuary, where I would run off to if I was restless, or simply wanted to be alone. From there, I had views of the most magnificent sunsets over the river Clyde, which would be uniquely beautiful each day. The fall was my favourite season, with trees all around a riot of colour, with reds, oranges, and yellows, and a kick to the air. Whether it was walking around the busy streets, or in a park, there was always something to watch: parents wheeling kids in a pram, old men feeding pigeons, a busker performing on the street, fascinating shop windows... The list goes on.
And finally and most importantly, I discovered myself ( though this may sound like a cliche). I think I found the best version of myself, one where I'm at peace, where I don't worry about other people's judgement, where I make myself happy.
Firstly, the people I met. This was the first time I'd lived away from home for any length of time, and that encouraged me to get out of my shell, and meet other people, not just from my country, but from many others as well. I ended up very lucky in the friends I made, from wonderful flatmates who became my best friends, classmates with whom I could have many interesting conversations, and other friends I made along the way, from many nationalities and disciplines. There was truly, something to learn from everyone.
Then, there were the Scottish people themselves. Unlike in India, where one does not strike up conversations with strangers very often, the locals were extremely friendly to friends and strangers alike, and I ended up having conversations quite naturally, with people in supermarkets, and with those who would come and sit down next to me in the park.
Secondly, the place. Glasgow is one of the greenest and most beautiful places I've ever seen. One does not really feel like travelling in cars or buses. Most places are near enough to walk to, and because of the clean pollution-free air, walks are more a delight than anything else. Each part of Glasgow has its own charm, the bustling city centre, the old-world elegance and snobbishness of the West End, the docks, and so many others. Getting lost in Glasgow, or walking around the city at night was never a worry somehow.It just felt safe.
My favourite place was a public park which was my sanctuary, where I would run off to if I was restless, or simply wanted to be alone. From there, I had views of the most magnificent sunsets over the river Clyde, which would be uniquely beautiful each day. The fall was my favourite season, with trees all around a riot of colour, with reds, oranges, and yellows, and a kick to the air. Whether it was walking around the busy streets, or in a park, there was always something to watch: parents wheeling kids in a pram, old men feeding pigeons, a busker performing on the street, fascinating shop windows... The list goes on.
And finally and most importantly, I discovered myself ( though this may sound like a cliche). I think I found the best version of myself, one where I'm at peace, where I don't worry about other people's judgement, where I make myself happy.
The place seems to have left its soul with you :)
ReplyDeleteI just reached Glasgow last week and I am already enjoying the same moments you enjoyed.
ReplyDelete