A Quiet Day Downtown

October 7 turned out to be a quiet day downtown Chicago, much to my surprise. I have become so used to the hustle and bustle of my surroundings here in the Windy City and surrrounding suburbs. However, that Sunday afternoon gave me quiet another impression of my wonderful city of Chicago. I so love to escape downtown. I have been so busy of late that I have not had the opportunity to take advantage of all it has to offer.

This day was different though. I had decided the Friday before to treat myself with a single date to the opera that afternoon at 2 PM. One of my favorites-----Puccini's La Boheme. I was fortunate to get down town in less than an hour and find parking for 10 bucks. I then proceeded to walk the distance to Lyric Opera. I could not help but revel in the sunshine and the breeze that caught my hair and turned it. There was hardly anyone down town that afternoon. And those that were---well, were going to the opera!

I approached the box office with much anticipation to pick up my ticket. Ticket in hand, I walked into the main floor to listen to the free lecture. I wanted to cry---being at the opera overwhelms me with joy that much. The director shared quaint anecdotes and heart-thrilling recording excerpts. I was in heaven. My eyes filled with tears as they played a segment featuring Luciano Pavarotti, who had just recently passed away.

After the lecture, I made my way to the dress circle to find my seat and take in all the views. I didn't care that I had 30 minutes. I had a fabulous seat in the balcony and a pair of opera glasses. I could see everything. I waited with anticipation for the curtain to rise. I had the privilege of viewing a somewhat historic event! The understudy would be performing her Lyric Debut due to the firing of the original artist.

I was not in the least disappointed by what I heard that day. My eyes filled with tears many times as I listened to each voice, felt each emotion, and empathized with each character. The scenery was beautiful and picturesque.

As I left the opera 3 hours later, I felt a wide range of emotion from joy to sadness. Sadness at leaving the world I loved, joy as I anticipated what lies ahead for my future.

I don't know when I quite came to love the city so much. But it is truly my city! Full of the things I love. I look forward to each moment there and hope to share its joy and exhilaration with friends and family.