I was not born and raised in the Philadelphia region. A few years ago, my family and I relocated here. To say that we have loved living here is an understatement; the breadth and depth of cultural, educational, healthcare and gastronomical offerings are well beyond what we could possibly have imagined. But most importantly, the diversity and warmth of its citizens renders the “City of Brotherly Love” the best place to live on the planet.
With all its strengths, however, Philadelphia is not perfect. Too many of its citizens lack the financial, educational and other resources to extricate themselves from the vicious cycle of poverty and access and augment Philadelphia’s incredible offerings. From what I have read, without intervention, this situation is not likely to improve very much because Philadelphia is not attracting as many large companies or growing its tax base as much as are other large cities. It seems that engaging people like myself to help improve the living conditions and resources for Philadelphia’s poor and appeal to young adults and businesses to relocate here will be pivotal in elevating Philadelphia.
I'm curious as to where you moved here from.
ReplyDeleteAs for your writing itself, I think that just from reading this short piece gives me a pretty good insight into who you are and what you may value. It also helped to hear your insight about the prison systems and their strategies from today's tour. You're very perceptive and aware of pressing economical issues that not surprisingly not a lot of people our age are--or if they are--they don't care enough to speak on them. Very admirable.
You dangle Philadelphia’s “City of Brotherly Love” moniker before the reader, then proceed to detail how the city fails to uphold that promise. Very powerful. Your strategy for examining the themes of groups and communities is also very interesting: the passage begins with an individual perspective, then zooms out to include your family, and finally widens to include the entire city. It puts into action your argument that we should consider everyone in our community.
ReplyDeleteNice poem about Philadelphia
ReplyDeleteVery clearly written and well structured piece of writing! Your voice and argument is clear; you provide a nice opening and then hammer home your main point very effectively.
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DeleteHi Melanie;
ReplyDeleteThis is a very well written piece. I thought that you gave a very balanced view of the subject matter. I am a native Philadelphian and I share your pride in the city but, I thought that you did an effective job of highlighting the challenges that the city also faces. Melanie you have my vote for Mayor of the city. Please keep writing!