I won a trip to New York City and spent a week there.

Fast forward to the end of my trip, I had just left my AirBnB and parted ways with my friend who joined my travels. I decided to stay an extra day just to explore and spend time alone in the big city.

I took the subway from Brooklyn to the middle of Manhattan and found myself at the beautiful Bryant Park. Next to it was the New York Public Library. I walked over and wanted to go in, but I was carrying all of my luggage. It would have been a hassle to carry it inside with me as there were other tourists exploring the library.

I then saw a woman sitting outside the library with her stuff listening to music. I asked if she could watch mine while I went in the library to get a book. She said yes.

Now I have to be honest. I found her to be quite attractive and I probably wouldn't have just asked any stranger to watch my stuff. This would be a good way to start a conversation once I came back out.

When I returned I wanted to thank her and continue talking, but I was nervous about what to say. I finally told myself, "what do I have to lose if I sit down and just talk to her? At worst she'd think I'm just another weirdo from the city." Plus, she didn't run away with my things. Therefore she has to be a nice person!

We ended up chatting at a small table outside the library for an hour or so about our lives and how beautiful New York City was. She had only been here for a day and hadn't seen much of the city yet. Since she was flying back home in a few hours, I said "Hey, I know I've only known you for about an hour, but would you want to explore the city with me? It'll be a little adventure." She said yes.

Needless to say, it was a memory I never wanted to forget. We walked through Central Park, spent hours trying to find a place with a bathroom (where do people go to pee in the city!?), and got lost together. It was a fun and moving experience to connect with another human being like this. And I learned that time certainly flies when you’re having fun with someone. You can’t have enough of it.

Maybe we shouldn't have had so much fun (ha)! It was time for us to part ways. We exchanged contact information, gave each other big hugs, and said goodbye.

She will be moving to NYC in a few months to chase a dream. I plan to travel more and have experiences like this internationally :)

New York City is truly magical. Something tells me this won't be the last time I'll be there.

A few things stand out to me that helped make that experience possible:

• Be Vulnerable - It's pretty scary to let someone see who you really are, especially someone new. But vulnerability is the connecting force between people. It makes us human. The power of vulnerability allows for deeper, more fulfilling relationships.
• Don't Be Afraid to Ask - The worst a person can say is no. The consequences of regret are much worse then not asking at all. Don't be afraid to ask!
• Be interested in the other person. Focus less on your story and more on theirs. Learn to listen and ask good questions and the fun will follow.
• Smile!

Having the opportunity to connect deeply with another human, with their story, is a blessing.