Michigan Avenue is one of the major tourist draws that everyone knows about around the world. It’s often hard to mention Chicago to a tourist without the term “Magnificent Mile” being dropped. It can be overwhelming to somebody not expecting it, but also invigorating to those who have yet to experience its charm.
After working for a year and a half on the Magnificent Mile, it gradually became hard to appreciate the significance of what it present on that long stretch of bedazzled road. Returning to school in the heart of downtown right next to Michigan Avenue after hoping to get away came with a surprise, however.
By stopping to acknowledge not only what is present, but also who is present, can bring a fresh wave of inspiration and context. Tuning something out isn’t hard, but appreciate its hidden aspects can be daunting. By taking a moment to forget what the area refers to, and taking it in for what looks like, can awaken a whole new interpretation.
Everything is illuminated. Everything has beauty.
Take it in.
J. Tyler Holmes 
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