"My Philadelphia"

By Joseph Breslin 

       My Philadelphia, my home, my strength, my strife, my life, my soul, my heart. I was born and raised in this city and I plan to stay. This place is where I live; it is a melting pot, a place where all cultures, ethnicities, and social statuses live, die, prosper, flourish, and fail. I love and loathe this city simultaneously because with every good there is an evil, but no impurity could damage or taint the true love and respect I have for my birthplace.
        Philadelphia is a utopia rich in history, culture, and opportunity. The hustle and bustle of the city provides nourishment for the restless soul in need of movement and action. The busy city provides jobs for workers from the innermost depths of the city to ones from abroad. It supplies every one who lives there with a source of metaphorical sustenance that powers them to succeed and continue on there path to happiness. This city of independence is where our forefathers shed light on the evils of an oppressive foreign monarchy to the world with the historical document spawned and signed right in Independence Hall. Here, they created the world we live in today. Not only does Philadelphia positively influence me; its influence is felt by this country itself.
        Philadelphia is a dystopia marred by violence, death, corruption, and poverty. The streets are plagued with murder and crime. Each year the death count rises, destroying lives and families. This “City of Brotherly Love” is a place of hate and despair, where human life can be disregarded by the same brother who is supposed to love you. Blood runs down the avenues and allies with little mention or recognition. The loss of a life scarring families for years doesn’t even leave a scratch on the general public or media. Poverty damages the lives and well beings of many families. Some live in houses with lush lawns and massive yards while others remain trapped in row homes and projects for generations struggling simply to get a hot plate on the table after a long days work. Philadelphia doesn’t just negatively influence me, but all the people in it.
        A city bearing the name brotherly love is the place where many thrive and survive and despite the crime and commotion, prosper. The entire city of Philadelphia has the potential to become the next great city but we must work together. The crime and poverty rates in the city must be lowered drastically to yield a more fruitful living experience.
        I’ve rested my head within these city limits many a night and would prefer to do so nowhere else. I spent my Sundays faithfully watching my beloved Eagles attempt to fly towards victory year after year and spend countless days supporting the Phillies during their home-stands. I am dedicated not only to Philadelphia itself but to everything involved with Philly; the teams, the people, the lifestyle, everything. No matter what its faults Philly is the perfect city to me because it supports me as I support it. My city and I are comparable to inseparable lovers whose only wish is to be together. No matter what crimes my city commits, the people it kills, the wrongs it does, it will always be held dear to my heart.