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Magical Moment 308, "The Light at the End of the Tunnel"


I’ll never forget my first trip into Manhattan from our new home in New Jersey. It was on a bus that went straight through the Lincoln Tunnel and right into the middle of Times Square. Those few minutes in that dark, narrow tunnel underneath the Hudson River, I kept wondering, “What am I gonna see when we come out the other side?” The answer was an awe-inspiring array of skyscrapers, traffic, people, and lights.

Since then, the novelty and excitement from that first trip has worn off a bit. I’m still amazed and privileged to be here, doing what I do, but the city can be rough at times. After a 9-hour day of fighting crowds and constant shivering through the dirty streets and subways, I long for a quiet place to hear myself think, warm my hands, use a clean bathroom. A corner Starbucks just doesn’t cut it.

After my last battle with the subway for the day, and my final fight with the Port Authority Bus Terminal, I once again long for that tunnel. Only this time, the light at the end of it, is home.
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Comments

Dawn said…
...No place like it!

This is a great shot.....I think I would be feeling the same way as you- for a time.
But you are right....there is no place like home:)
Have a wonderful weekend!:))
December 10, 2010 at 5:32 AM
Steve Gravano said…
I was totally amazed by the tunnel as a child. Growing up in rural Long Island, we had nothing of the sort, and to find out we were under the East River, WOW!. "What happens if it leaks dad?"
December 10, 2010 at 9:40 AM
carmilevy said…
I drove through the Lincoln Tunnel last year, and your wonderful vignette totally captures the experience - right down to the longing for home after a long day in the big, tumultuous city.

You have such a great way of turning experiences into words that land with impact.

And the picture? Sublimely stunning.
December 10, 2010 at 12:08 PM
Elizabeth Grimes said…
Thank you all for the comments, however I cannot take credit for the photo. It was taken by Vincent M. Belford.
December 10, 2010 at 2:22 PM
Anita said…
A sentiment I can totally feel; and I don't even go out to a 9 to 5. I just love the peace and sanctity of my home.
December 10, 2010 at 3:54 PM
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