"I function in binary. Chicago exists in a state of extremes—sweltering heat or biting cold. There are moments of transition, yet they are often overshadowed by the city’s dominant climates. The warmth allows me to immerse myself in the elements, whether through cycling, swimming in the lake, or simply absorbing the sun’s presence. There is a certain vitality in these months, a shared sense of liveliness that I find deeply compelling.

Still, as I often remind myself, no matter how verdant the trees become or how relentless the sun may seem, winter arrives abruptly. The colder months strip the city of its vibrancy, but they bring a necessary pause. I retreat into books and tea, embracing the stillness. Though winter is harsh, I have come to appreciate its imposition of reflection and restraint. It is an integral aspect of the human experience, a reminder of the cycles that govern both nature and ourselves."