We flew to Washington, DC today to help our daughter get settled into her new apartment and acclimated to the city before starting law school. She asked me, “Are you happy I’m leaving?” And I said, “Yes,” in a matter-of-fact way. She paused and replied, “Dad, you didn’t have to say it like that.” We exchanged loving smirks.
What I didn’t say out loud—but deeply felt—is that I’m proud. Proud that she’s taking this risk. Proud of this transition. DC is a vibrant place with challenges like anywhere else, but it’s also a place that welcomes people in transition. It’s diverse in every way—racially, economically, culturally, and intellectually.
We’re staying in an Airbnb and I’ve noticed people from all walks of life living side-by-side. I overheard a woman say, “I remember before the fancy buildings and apartments were built,” and then she added, “I live within walking distance from this.” Her comment reminded me: this city holds space for old and new.