Random thoughts about the city...

I've been thinking a lot about this city. Everyone sees it as so open and friendly and warm, and it is - when you're with other people like yourself. San Francisco is really open; everyone has an incredible level of respect for the lifestyles and opinions of others. Even if you completely disagree with someone you will fight for their ability to be/do/think whatever they want.

On the other hand, I feel like there are so many people here and so many niches that people are almost a little less accepting on a personal level with others who don't share their exact values. But it is understandable given that there are bound to be people who are extremely similar to one another. Why would you "settle" for anyone else?

I actually hadn't thought about it this way at all until my boss mentioned it at a happy hour a few months ago. He was saying there were many different crowds that just didn't hang out together. I think we were talking specifically about the Marina crowd versus the Mission. At first I thought, no way, it's not like that at all. But the more I thought about it, the more I realized even I have a certain distaste for the wealthier areas of the city. I also have a hard time relating to people who live there. But then again maybe its just because I assume people are a certain way that I can't see them for the complex person that they really are.

But I have the feeling that because there are so many places, people, and things that cater to your exact needs that you really don't need to go outside of your bubble, and many people don't. But for me, the other side of the bubble has a lot more to offer. I want to get to know all sorts of people, and to find ways to connect even if we aren't completely the same or don't run in the same social circles. Can you really learn and grow as a person if you don't? I came because I want to see and do everything that the city had to offer, and to meet as many people with different lifestyles and viewpoints and experiences. I just need to figure out how to break down those barriers, whether real or perceived.