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ONTO TONIGHT’S POST!
Well. I just had one of the most special weeks ever. If you’re following me over on Instagram, (@beauty.beyond.bones) then you will know that my mama was visiting me in NYC this week!
I have lived here for almost eight years now, and very very rarely do I partake in “touristy” activities. I mean, heck I don’t even go above 14th Street unless aaaabsolutely necessary. Not to mention, I avoid Times Square like the plague.
I guess I just have settled into my New York ways.
So, having my mom in town was the perfect excuse to dust off my MetroCard and paint the town red!
A super fast recap: We saw Hamilton on Broadway. This was truly the catalyst of her coming in. It was hands down THE best piece of theater I’ve ever experienced. The music — phenomenal. (Listen here). And side note — am I the only one who didn’t know that Alexander Hamilton died in a freaking duel?!! I digress.
We went to several museums…
The Whitney in MeatPacking, where we went to an Andy Warhol exhibit. The view from the roof was just spectacular.
The Cloisters waaay uptown, north of the Bronx. A hidden gem known only by locals that is a satellite museum of the MET. Made to look like a monastery, it houses religious art and artifacts.
We ate at some delicious restaurants – Tavern on the Green, Sant Ambroeus, Gramercy Tavern, City Bakery, and the Rock Center Cafe – and took my friends out to dinner at While We Were Young Kitchen.
We went to Rockefeller Center and saw the big Christmas tree. St. Patrick’s Cathedral for daily Mass. Strolled through the Union Square Christmas Market. Did some power shopping on Fifth Ave. Bartered like pros in Chinatown. And even hit up Times Square late one night, just to take in all the bright lights.
But my favorite thing we did, was visit the Tenement Museum in the East Village.
Twenty five years ago, the museum bought an old tenement house on Orchard Street that hadn’t been touched since the early 1900s. And they went in, preserved it, found out the history of the tenants who lived there (through primary and secondary sources), and then recreated what life was like for the immigrant families who lived there. It was such an eye opening experience.
We took the “Irish Outsiders” tour, which followed the Moores, who came over in 1869 from Ireland at the age of 17 and 18, during the potato famine. The young woman worked as a domestic servant and the young man did manual labor. But these Irish Catholics faced intense religious persecution, living in an all German-Protestant tenement building.
Coming from both Irish and German heritage, it was incredibly fascinating to hear what my ancestor’s lives could have been like. My mom told me that it reminded her of her grandparents’ story.
But to see what life was like back then — first of all, to think that famine was a real thing. Ireland lost a quarter of it’s population during the potato famine. And then infant mortality. And the horrendous living conditions: three, shared outhouses for the entire building. Having to carry buckets of water up four flights of stairs from the one pump outside. No electricity, or air conditioning. Life was hard. Really hard.
I left, thinking to myself, What would those people think if they were dropped into 2018? What would they think of life in America today?
I mean, the family we followed, they had one photograph of themselves. And it was a big deal. Here I am, with over 12,000 photos on my iPhone. I mean, yikes.
But there is so much more abundance for nearly all of us, verses what they experienced.
We have so much affordable food and clothing available to us, through supermarkets, low cost restaurants, and discount stores.
And everything is in excess – the fashion trends. The stuff we accumulate.
These families were living 8 people in a one bedroom apartment. Earning $5 a week at backbreaking jobs, and paying $10 a month in rent. They had just a few articles of clothing to their name. And if they were lucky, a book to read.
The shock they’d have, if they saw the way we lived.
Not to mention, the fact that we are now living in a Post-Christian era. Faith is simply not part of most people’s daily lives any more.
The Moores – when they immigrated to America, the first thing they did was find the neighborhood parish, so that they could be connected to a faith community.
Isn’t that something?
I’d love to sit down and talk to them, and just ask them about the role that faith played in their lives, because I’m willing to bet, we could sure learn a lot. The foundational role faith played, not just to their identity, but to their community – to think of how far our society has strayed.
But case in point, the Moore family only lived in that German tenement building for one year. They then moved to an Irish Catholic neighborhood in the Village, which just goes to show how important a faith community was back then.
And one final thing. Their story had a happy ending. One filled with hope and inspiration. The Moores eventually became homeowners in Queens. They had worked hard all their lives – earning and saving at just $5 a week, but worked their way up. Never giving up. Never asking for a hand out or a hand up. They prided themselves in the work that they did. And it paid off, in a big way.
This was way before the welfare system started in 1935. And part of me wonders, how that family’s trajectory would have been different, if welfare programs were prominent. The fact is, people survived through multiple jobs and the kindness of others around them, often within their parishes and church communities. The work ethic of these immigrants in the later 1800’s and early 1900’s enriched our national identity as a land of opportunity where people can improve their status through initiative and hard work, as so many of these industrious folks did, as evidenced by the Moores.
I’m so glad the Tenement Museum is out there. Because it’s teaching us so much, simply by telling the stories of those who have gone before us.
I’m walking away with an overwhelming and renewed sense of gratitude. For everything in life that I have grown so accustomed to that I take for granted without even thinking about it.
The blessings and privileges we have, living in the United States of America, are ones that people dreamed of. That risked their lives for. That sacrificed and gave up everything to obtain. And still do. How blessed we are, and we don’t even know it.
Because at the end of the day, we are all immigrants. Our diversity is our strength and our uniqueness. Our optimism is part of our DNA.
What do you think the Moores would be the most shocked to see in 2018?
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149 responses to “We Are All Immigrants”
Wonderful article. We should always remember our history!
Thank you friend. I completely agree! Our history matters! Hugs and love xox
Absolutely, thank you! What’s how we all learn: from our history, from our parents, grandparents..
You’re so right. They are living fountains of wisdom. We should be clinging to their every word!
Amen to that. Golden words!
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That is so cool! I missed this part when I was in NYC back in 2009. Last year, I visited the Immigration Museum in Melbourne, Australia and traced how the Aussies viewed their own immigration experiences. I posted that on my page if you are interested.
Thank you Justin! Oh wow that’s so awesome! Will def check it out! If you’re ever back in nyc, the museum is def worth the visit! Hugs and love xox
Love this! We should never forget where we came from! And tavern on the green is an awesome restaurant!
I completely agree! And yes! Especially with all the Christmas decorations! I had my best meal of the trip there! Hugs and love xox
Genuine and Thought-Provoking as always. Would love to collab on an article sometime!
Thank you Jonathon, I really appreciate it. 🙂 awesome! Hugs and love xox
I’ve never been to New York but I hope to soon and I want to see Hamilton!! I had no idea Alexander Hamilton died in a duel. I must say that’s quite the way to go! This is a great post. Yes we are all immigrants and i think more people need to have a history lesson and remember that. This country belonged to the native Americans and everyone else migrated here! Thank you for sharing. Sounds like you had an amazing time with your Mother! 🌷🌷🌷 Moms are the best
Oh my gosh definitely come to NYC!! and Hamilton is amazing – even just listening to the sound track is an transcendental experience! Haha And you’re right about that! And yes love my mama. Thanks Lane! Xox
My relations were immigrants also. The Sharpes by a land grant from King James the First and the Fraileys via the immigration department in Wilmington, Delaware, 1928 from Germany. I have no sympathies for illegals. Either do it the right way or don’t do it all.
Oh wow what incredible history you have in your family! Thank you for sharing your thoughts Mike. Xox
Nice article, but I want to take exception to something. Native American and African Americans are not immigrants. The former were already here and the latter didn’t come here, they were dragged here.
Thank you so much for this powerful insight. That’s a great point. And yes – that’s another sad and powerful truth. Hugs and love xox
We need to always remember that
Hugs 🤗 and love 💕 right back 😘
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“Native Americans” came here from Asia, so they too are immigrants. Not all blacks were slaves, some were pirates. Learn history please.
Right. And Europeans came from Africa. Go get an education and some manners.
Uh oh, here we go. How do you know they came from Africa? Perhaps they came from the Middle East.
Where did you get your education from? My manners are intact, perhaps yours need some adjusting.
You’re a visitor on someone’s blog. You need to step back and chill. I’m not going to disrespect my Sister Blogger Friend by taking your ignorant and arrogant butt down. So I’ll leave it at that. Keep on fuming. Maybe you’ll pop a blood vessel. The rest of us are good. Toodles.
Hahahahahah, hiji, you mind if I call you hiji? Anyway hiji, seems like you want everyone to be quiet unless they have something positive to say. What’s the problem with differing opinions and stances?
This is another form of diversity, yet you seem to have an issue with it? Why’s that, I thought diversity was a strength.
Your threats do not scare me. Do whatever you gotta do.
I wonder if you’ll have the self restraint to not respond to this comment, since your so worried about “sister”.
Nice post! The tenement museum sounds so interesting. And the museum with religious art. Wow. Thanks for the mini tour!!
Thank you so much Mary Jo! They were both fascinating museums! 10/10 recommend! Hugs and love xox
Love this…and especially love seeing photos of you and your mom on her visit …I’ll be doing the same thing this weekend! My son lives in Manhattan….and I just can’t wait to see him and spend some time in NYC 🙂 And I’m thankful for you sharing your thoughts of us all being immigrants…it so keeps things in perspective!
Thank you so much! Oh how fun! I hope you have a great time!! This is such a fun time of year to visit the city!! Thanks for taking the time to read 🙂 big hugs xox
Wow. What a wonderful story. I’m afraid the Moores would be most shocked at the lack of importance we place on faith connections and community, along with our focus on stuff. I think they were wealthier than we are. So glad you got to have the week with your Mom! And that you had that iPhone so you could take more than one picture of it! 🙂 Have a good week!
Thank you so much Kenneth. I think you’re right – wealthier in what matters most. Hahah so true! Thank goodness for photos! Haha you too hugs x
Oh, one other thing. I’m sure you already do this, but just in case, be sure to write down everything your Mom knows of her grandparents’ story and anything else she can remember, and even record her telling it if you can. Your Dad too. I’ve lost all four of my grandparents, and no one can remember much of our ancestry beyond them. Just bits and pieces. All that history is gone. Your kids and grandkids will want to know someday I’m sure. 🙂
That is such a great idea. Thanks. I’m so sorry to hear that, Kenneth. 🙁
What an inspiring story about our ancestors and a beautiful post! I’m glad we have ways of helping people today, but it would be good to have that sense of community you talked about. So few people have it today, even those that go to church.
Thank you friend. You’re so right – community is so so so important. It’s a necessary for our identity and sense of home and belonging. Hugs and love xox
Peace. 🙂
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I think that family would be shocked to see the excess we have here… from clothes to technology, to food. Great insight, I’d love to visit that museum! Thanks for the wonderful post, Jenny xoxo
I think you’re so right about that. Soo much excess. And the food waste. My goodness it is nauseating. If you’re ever in nyc, I’d definitely suggest checking it out! Thanks Jenny for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
My pleasure, hugs and love to you too! xo
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As God’s children we are not immigrants here. Neither are we citizens. We are wanderers much as the Moores were, wandering from a home that was killing them with famine and searching for a better home.
We’ve not yet reached God’s country. We must wander and work, doing our best to live the lives of gratitude God asks of us. We do good works and receive the rewards of kindness based on faith, our $5 a day!
Someday, someday it will all add up; the results of hard work, sacrificing/ denying oneself for the ,long term goal.
What would the Moores think of 2018? I doubt they’d like it. Too easy to be distracted. Too easy to be self-absorbed. Too easy to lose motivation. Motivated – that’s the one-word summary of immigrants to America. Ben Franklin was often approached for a letter of introduction to get into the US while he was our ambassador there. He would politely decline, maybe write something absurdly broad at the most. What he did tell people – indeed advertise – was that America was the place to go, but with conditions. Expect to sacrifice, work…no SLAVE away at something, but slave away for yourself! If you could do that, you have a chance to succeed and reap great rewards.
The proof of Ben’s message to all Europe? I once told a German colleague about our perception of the German work ethic. He scoffed and told me that Germans think Americans are crazy! That told me that it wasn’t German work ethic that built America. It was immigrant work ethic regardless of nationality.
What did Tom Hanks say in A League of Their Own? “It’s the hard that makes it great.”
So it is with immigrants. So it is with God’s children.
That is such a powerful insight Jeff. Thank you so much for sharing that. You’re right – someday it will surely add up. And what a glorious day that will be 🙂 it’s the hard that makes it great. Wow. Now there’s a truth bomb if I’ve ever heard one. Hope you and yours have a lovely week my dear friend. Hugs and love xox
You too! BTW, are you still doing your newsletter?
Yep! Just didn’t do it last week with my mom visiting! Back at it tomorrow morning!
Yay!
🤗🤗🤗thanks for saying that Jeff
Thanks for sharing this with us! I love history! Also, your mom looks like she is doing well. I’m glad to see God has answered our prayers. I definitely see the resemblance between the two of you. Glad you had a great time together!
Thanks so much Matthew. I love history too. Especially when it’s brought to life like that in the museum. Aww thanks for saying that. God is so good and thank you for your steadfast prayers. It means the absolute world. Hugs and love xox
A very good concept. Thank you for sharing. Not I have more things to see.
Thank you so much JB! Yes! Definitely check out the museum next time you’re in nyc! Hugs and love xox
You are very graciously welcome so much BBB. Hugs and love to U!!!
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We are not all immigrants and I am offended that you think you can speak for me.
Diversity is our strength? If that is true then what’s the problem with division? If diversity was a strength then no one would get along.
This is your worst article yet. You went on a trip and felt nostalgic and then you began to make assumptions about everyone.
This is the problem. Speak for yourself and only yourself.
I’m sorry you feel that way. I did not mean to speak for you, and my sincerest apologies that I offended you. Hugs and love xox
I thought it was a great article and one of her best. I strongly disagree with you. You chose to be offended at something that wasn’t offensive. I pray the Lord brings you peace. I honestly don’t understand what you were offended by. She wasn’t speaking for you. She was making a point that all of our ancestors came from somewhere. Mine came from Ireland and Germany. My wife’s came from Spain. Also, diversity is a strength. How do you figure diversity being a strength means people don’t get along? There are plenty of people who get along just fine and they are very different from each other. I get along with people who are different from me. You don’t? Try not to be so easily offended. That is the big problem in this ridiculously hyper sensitive world we live in now. There was no problem with this post. It was excellent like all of her posts are. Try to chill out and have a Merry Christmas.
Ha, ok here we go. The diversity you speak of is only skin deep (skin color, sexual preference and cultural background). My comment was diverse from yours and you seem to take issue with that. Is it too diverse for your tastes?
It’s nice to see a knight in shining armor rushing to her (the damsel in distress) defense. I guess these little women folk still can’t take care of themselves, in your mind.
Why do you think I need peace? Please, don’t pray for me, I know this is how you feign virtue. You use this phrase as an attempt to seem greater than what you truly are. Keep the kiddie Christianity to yourself, I am in no need of your hubris or hyperbole.
Now you blame the world for being too sensitive and you blame me for being too sensitive, when it seems that my comment offended you. Perhaps take some of your own medicine before you start writing prescriptions for everyone else.
Eventually you will have to look inward instead of always looking outward. Judge yourself before you begin to judge others.
Nah, you got me all wrong bottomlesscoffee007. You didn’t offend me. I just thought your comment was ridiculous and I wanted to let you know. Believe me, when I pray it is not feigning virtue as you say. I am also not judging you. I just disagree with you and you don’t like that. Go read my blog and you will see I am strong in Christ. I don’t know of this “kiddie Christianity” you speak of, but I do know Jesus and I live in His power and love every day. I hope you do the same. Oh, and yeah, she is a great sister in Christ to me and I will stand up for her. Not because she can’t handle rude comments like yours by herself, but because I care and I stand up for those I care about.
Oh man, anything else you want to throw God and Jesus into for some credibility? Speak for yourself, and only yourself. My “rude” comment?
This is proof that you hate diversity.
I don’t need to read your blog, I already got you plenty figured out.
For a man of God as you say, it seems like you can’t wait to cast some stones.
Man, chill out. I am not throwing stones at you. I am just pointing out that you were being rude telling her it was her “worst post yet.” By the way, I am not some open borders Soros Democrat either, so don’t put words in my mouth about diversity. Go read my post “Stand Up For Righteousness” about my political views. You don’t have anything figured out and you don’t have a clue who I am. Read my post “Peaceful Morning & A Bold Word” and “My Letter To “The Lose Your Salvation” Preacher” too. My whole blog is about Jesus dude! I talk about Jesus because of what He did in my life and the darkness He rescued me from. It’s not about credibility and you have no idea what you are talking about. I wish I could tell you what has happened to me, but your heart is hard and you won’t receive it. Peace to you though.
Take it easy bud. You didn’t like my diverse perspective and you made that clear.
So I guess you’re Native American.
Or maybe you think that’s Indian.
Awesome post sister! My ancestors are from Ireland (Dad’s side) and Germany (Mom’s side). My wife’s are from Spain. Her Great Great Grandpa was from Barcelona. I think the people back then would be absolutely mesmerized at all the things we have in 2018. Thank you for this post! I thought it was beautifully written with a big heart of love. God bless!!!
Thank you Ryan. Oh that’s awesome! I’m Irish and German as well! Wow – what a beautiful mix of humanity. Thanks for your kind words 🙂 glad it resonated with you 🙂 big big hugs xox
Maybe bottomless coffee is Native American. I could understand the response. I am reminded that those Irish immigrants that paved the way for so many modern Americans were very despised and looked down upon in their time – kind of like Hispanics in the 21st century, or other waves of immigrants in other times. Somethings don’t change. God doesn’t change either, and the evidence of His tender heart toward the immigrant is clear throughout Scripture. The verse that Jesus quoted in Leviticus when he admonished us to love our neighbors as ourselves was originally spoken about immigrants. (Leviticus 19:17-18)
Kevingdrendel, I am not an Indian. I was born here, so I am a native, as were my parents and their parents and so on.
The difference between God and immigration today is that today immigration is a money making scheme.
People also say that Jesus was a socialist since he fed so many for free and cured many as well. When Jesus did it, it did not require donations or taxation.
Just because we are told to love someone doesn’t mean we actually do. I would like to see the people that welcome immigrants to do it in their own homes and from their own wallets before they demand that everyone must “participate”.
Hispanics aren’t looked down upon, freeloaders are though.
I was born here too, and I don’t think Jesus was a socialist, for what that is worth.
Kevingdrendel, yeah, too often religion is used as a weapon to trick people to give into maniacal and nefarious people and deeds.
I was born here too, but my ancestors weren’t. I don’t think Jesus was a socialist, for what that is worth, but he may separate sheep from the goats. I guess I just want to be on God’s side of that divide.
Good luck sir, I hope you get what you want.
Thanks friend. You’re right – God doesn’t change. His heart is full of love for all. As ours should be 🙂 Hugs and love xox
What an awesome post! Thank you for sharing!
Thank you so much! Hugs and love xox
BBB: What a beautiful and wonderful host you were to your mother. She got the best of our dear city thanks to you. Brava. And happy you got to see Hamilton. I have been extremely lucky to see it twice, once at the intimate Public Theatre and once on glorious Broadway. It is transformational. And what thrilling sentiments about the Tenement Museum and our mutual status as immigrants. One minor correction. The Cloisters are neither north of the Bronx nor made up to look like a monastery. Those are actual cloisters, monasteries and churches stitched together brick by block after being brought back from Europe. They are the real thing! And it is actually in Northern Manhattan, next door to the Bronx. I know because I literally live next door. That is my neighborhood. Glad you liked it. It is truly an unknown treasure of the city. I’m sure your mom has lots to brag about. Good work.
Walter
Thank you Walter, yeah it was a real treat to be with her! and wow — you’ve seen it twice! that’s amazing. transformational for sure. And how interesting about The Cloisters! Hey!! Neighbor! THat’s awesome. lucky you to live in such a picturesque part of the city! big hugs to you 🙂 xox
[…] via We Are All Immigrants — BeautyBeyondBones […]
Thank you for the link up! Hugs and love xox
Excellent column. It’s so good to study history and understand people and how they lived. Like you wrote, “The STUFF we accumulate”. I know! It makes me feel guilty looking around my house with all this s-t-u-f-f. I wish it wasn’t here sometimes. I think we all get caught up in building our portfolios with stuff. Sure it’s fun but it can be so sickening too. Let me address the faith component. Our world has gone wacko. The lack of religion, church-going, and faith is as low as we’ve ever seen. When I grew up we rarely did anything on Sundays, other than go to church, because that was how my parents grew up. My dad would tell us that he felt like he spent his entire Sunday in the church. It was a day of religion and rest. Businesses used to be closed on Sundays. Now our little league coaches are scheduling games and practices for Sunday mornings. What?!? I feel like I’m ranting now.
Anyways, great column. Thanks!
Reid
Thank you so much Reid. I feel ya there — swimming in stuff!! I wish we could go back to that way of life! Hugs and love xox
I need to stop collecting stuff, or least donate more to charity. I don’t need all this stuff! Thanks for the comments. PS I enjoyed the photos of you and your mom in NYC. Take care, Reid
Thanks again Reid. I need to do that too. And now is actually a great time to donate because with the cold weather there’s a great need for coats and warm clothes. Hugs and love xox
I loved this article. It sounds like you and your Mom has a wonderful visit. I love the history you shared. My Grandmother was a historian so I’m always very interested in the ways of life before ours.
Thank you so much friend. Yes, we really had an amazing time. How awesome! Yeah it’s so interesting to hear about. Hugs and love xox
Great article. If I ever get there I’d love to see the Tenement Museum and Cloister – those would absolutely be two choices I’d make so huge thanks for sharing this.
Thank you so much 🙂 yes! Both are fascinating museums! Hugs and love xox
That’s interesting. You alluded to wealth disparity in the tenements but the pay for laborers hasn’t changed since then. The ratios are the same but the cost of living has increased. So. There’s less happy endings coming here just like before. When, one bad week or speaking up for mistreatment at work ended your existence. That fear still exists. Which is why I hire and work with mostly immigrants that can work here legally and pay them well. 2 to 4x minimum wage. It won’t fix anything but being Native American I understand. Ha. Carrying water and a hundred people to an outhouse, was normal on the reservation. Its pretty normal for lower class workers in other developed countries as well.
Thank you for paying fair wages. So important. Hugs and love xox
I agree. The fun that occurred during prohibition and pre-depression was on the backs of the newest generation of immigrants. I don’t need a BMW or a fancy vacation. Not at the suffering of others.
Powerful words
Has that ever happened to you? Maybe you need the money so you promote something made out of baby seals sewn by Chinese schoolchildren? How’d you handle it?
A wonderful and much enlightening adventure, if i might add.
I pray i get to have such more often.
And yes. I guess to an extent we all are immigrants of sorts
Thank you so much Ned. Hugs and love xox
Wonderful post! (And I am a bred-in-the-bone NYC native)
thank you for sharing your experiences and the insights from them.
Thanks so much! Oh nice! Yay NYC! Hugs and love xox
Love, love, love this! My Oma made us a book about our family history in The Netherlands. Even found out that my great grandfather had his own bakery and fed the Jews during WWII! It’s so important to know your family history! Shoot, tomorrow we celebrate Sinterklaas, the Dutch version of Santa Claus!
Aw thank you so much Erika! Oh wow what an incredible story!! Happy Sinterklaas day! Hugs and love xox
It’s always fun to be a tourist in your own city!!
It really is! Thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
What a wonderful post, and a much-needed reminder for me. I have been feeling overwhelmed for a long while with all the “stuff” I have. I’m sick of it! Your post has motivated me to FINALLY clean up, clear out, and donate, donate, donate. I’m also putting the Tenement Museum on our list for our long-awaited trip to New York next summer.
Thank you so much for sharing. I’m a proud woman who recognizes and celebrates many family members and ancestors who came through Ellis Island and more. Thank you, thank you!!
Thank you so much Laura Beth 🙂 oh good! Yes! And this is such a perfect time to donate – with the cold weather settling in. And yes! Be sure to schedule a tour BEFORE you arrive to the museum. You can only visit the tenement museum with a guided tour – it’s an experiential museum. You can do it online 🙂 Hugs and love xox
Awesome! Appreciate the tips. Thank you! XOXO
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Yes my ancestors were immigrants to Australia from both sides of the family, but it goes further back than that, the most distant history takes us to year 1590 England but on one side of the family the surname could indicate a connection with the Roman Empire through the occupation of Britain. So there’s some Celtic Latin mix there I’m sure. Then on my wife’s side it’s Hungarian and German ancestry. When you go into the ancient movement of tribes out of the Middle East and Asia that’s our origin if you accept the Christian faith ancestry model. So you have it right, we are all immigrants and world tribes are on the move once again. The internet has a lot on tribal movements throughout history and language is a fascinating study too. I like to delve into these kind of studies. They now offer DNA testing and can tell what our racial mix is, or at least that’s the theory. It seems we are not only immigrants but a complicated racial mix though I know some uneducated souls would not buy that in spite of the science behind it. 🙂
Oh wow that’s such a great story. Thank you for sharing. It’s so fascinating to see where we all come from! Hugs and love xox
My friend was just in NY, it sounds amazing! I still remember when there were no cell phones for the most part and the only ones that existed were bricks. Kinda miss those days sometimes..
Oh fun! Haha ahh, the Zack Morris phone. Haha Hugs and love xox
My mom had this one, https://goo.gl/tNG9VJ , lol! I think the Zack Morris one’s were insanely expensive! Yeah, I plan to make it out to the apple someday, I gotta have a slice of the Pizza, see if it lives up to the hype haha
Hahah amazing. Oh yes! Come for the pizza. And stay for the hustle and bustle!
For sure!
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Much substance for thought. Yes of hard work and faith
Thank you David, I appreciate that. Hugs and love xox
Well-written. Thank you for sharing your experience!
The Moore’s would probably find all the tech crazy and disruptive to life. The lack of morals would sadden them. The ease of getting things even if you don’t work for them would probably make them shake their heads.
I was raised to work hard for everything. No handouts.
Hard work and faith should never go out of style <3
Thank you so much Jackie for sharing your thoughts on this. Yes! Hard work was the foundation of my upbringing too. Hugs and love xox
Comparing to the life the Moores had from that time to now, I’d rather living in their era to be honest with myself. I’m more a old time vintage person haha and those days were so much more better and one was contented with the little they had and had more time with the simple things that really mattered in life. I’m so glad we have an assuring hope in Christ as we await restoration to humanity forever with our King Jesus <3
Thanks Tammy, yeah I think it would be really interesting to live back then too! Amen! hugs xo
You’re welcome! Yes most certainly! Blessings & grace!
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Your timely, lively, personal description of New York lessens my aversion from some not-so-fun experiences. I think visiting anywhere is enhanced by being with someone who lives there.
I just gave the author of “the1itinerary.com” your site address. Another New Yorker involved in travel. Do not know anything else.
BTW: I, like most Americans, am a descendant of immigrants.
Only those who were citizens of another country, and come to the USA are immigrants.
Anyone who is born in the USA is a citizen, not an immigrant. “Identifying” with our roots is fine, but let’s not lose the distinction, lumping the two together
Thank you Von for your thoughts on this. That’s a good point. hugs
Great post and necessary reminder for us all. I hope to someday visit this museum.
I think visitors from that time period would be mostly shocked by the juxtaposition of our superabundant material wealth and abysmal spiritual poverty.
Thank you so much Rodney 🙂 yes! It’s definitely worth the visit. I agree. Hugs and love xox
I enjoyed reading your post and your NYC touring. I wrote a post in 2015/2016 sharing similar sentiments “there’s no pure race out here, we are all mixed”, meaning different nationalities and origins. We can be proud and celebrate our Culture and Heritage but when its all said and done there is no pure breed of people out here anywhere. National Geographic has stated on several occasions that ALL life originated in Africa as even much of the Bible takes place in Egypt and The Middle East.
Continue to enjoy ALL that life is teaching you , and continue to share every chance you get. I for one feel I can learn from anyone when I take the time to listen or read. I may not always agree with everyone but I learn in difference as well to gain a better understanding of this world. We are ALL here to make this world a better place, some Embrace this role and do everything they can to accomplish the task of making things better.
You mentioned the kindness of others when it came to the Moores in my view that is a hand out and a hand up, because someone extended their hands to give and help make it better for another. Sometimes we have these views and sayings not realizing why so many would rather “suffer” than seek help, and why many others refuse to extend help. And for me in my understanding between the two, this is part of the reason we dont have the communities or the Faith like we did in the past.
I am so working towards creating that community in my community and beyond, because you are correct our focus is to consumed with stuff and what people are doing (status and image) versus how people are doing ( character, heart, and spirit)
I am off to your Advent post now- because I agree with you on some things you shared there as well.
Have a Happy Thursday 12/6/2018 and Thank You again for writing what you experience
Character heart and spirit.I love that so much. Thank you for sharing this powerful perspective. i love your heart! hugs xo
Very moving .
Thank you Lawrence. Hugs and love xox
You made me miss my home in NYC! I remember seeing the Warhol exhibition at the Whitney and the Orchard St. tenement. I’m homesick.
Thanks friend. Come visit anytime!! Hugs and love xox
Wow, you’re making me want to go to the Tenement Museum! Sometimes I get upset because I can’t afford things like a car. Then I talk to one of our building’s janitors and realize he’s working two jobs, and I do have things to be grateful for.
As for your question about what the Moores would be most shocked by . . . I tend to think it would be the way people are dressed, and their attitudes! Like the lack of modesty and humility.
Thanks Rose! I think you’re right about that! Hugs and love xox
It looks like you packed in a lot of fun sightseeing with your mom! I just was at St. Patrick’s Cathedral & Rockefeller doing Christmasy things a couple days ago.. I’ve gone to both so many holiday seasons, but I always enjoy it. And I’m jealous that you got to see Hamilton! I’ve been wanting to go. I love seeing Broadway shows and the last one I saw was Wicked.
Thanks Nicole! Yes! We had a really fun time. Oh nice! I love St. Patrick’s, especially at this time of year. Wicked — such a tremendous show. LOVE IT! hugs xo
Wow. Reading this made me seriously miss NYC. Thanks for bringing back awesome memories!
Thank you so much Hilbert! Hugs and love xox
Absolutely wonderful article about the Tenement Museum and personal story of the Moores, and you’re absolutely right: Their narrative can (and should) teach us all so much, not least of which is genuine gratitude for the blessings we take for granted in this country.
At the end of your blog, you ask, “What do you think the Moores would be the most shocked to see in 2018?” And while I hope and pray this doesn’t sound too political, I think they might be shocked by the changed attitude toward immigration and immigrants in general. Of course, as you point out, they had it hard living as Catholics in a Protestant German apartment complex, but I think there was still a generally open and welcoming attitude toward immigrants on the part of most Americans … but maybe I’m just naïve. Still, it does seem like, on the whole, we’ve become more insular as a nation, especially over the last few years … even somewhat more insensitive to the plight of asylum seekers.
Well, anyways, have a very Merry Christmas! 🙂 🙂 🙂
Than bulky so much for this heartfelt reflection. So much powerful food for thought. I think there’s a lot of truth in that, and we need to remember the roots of this country. Hugs and love xox
Well, technically the ancestors are immigrants, the children who are born there are native to the country. They will have different experiences and attitudes as they grow, often they are the ones that have to fill in forms, interpret if the parents don’t speak English, they have to somehow fit into the culture of the country at school. They live in two worlds.
Sometimes they reject the parent’s decor from the old country, for example.
I’m Australian, my ancestors came here in the mid 19 th c and I feel Celtic as they all were, but above all I am Australian born and bred not an immigrant. If I go to Ireland they will tell me I’m not Irish just because my ancestors were, ditto the Scots and Cornish.
thank you for sharing your thoughts on this. It’s so interesting to learn our heritage. hugs xo
Very informative and needed to be said,we get the best education from our ancestors,much respect and props to you, ☮️
thank you so much for sharing your thoughts. you’re right about that! hugs xo
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You and your mom are so identical ! That is so beautiful. Sound like she had a nice visit. Happy New Years!
Oh my gosh thank you! I think she is beautiful inside and out! Happy New Year! 🎉
Just like tou💕