Hello users of River.site,

Greetings from London.

One thing I appreciate about this site is how it cherishes specificity. Serious cups of coffee, cars that make you go “woah that’s a cool car”, signage warning against action.

It's nice to be in a virtual space that platforms the little things in life.

I was inspired to write today by one of those little things: a slice of warm sunlight.

The days are growing short here, and even when it is ostensibly daytime, more than not the sun is obscured by overcast skies if i'm lucky or a cold rain if I'm not.

After eating lunch today, I walked to a park near campus in search of some sun. It was just a bit before two and the sun was already so low the three or four stories of buildings were tall enough to keep it from reaching the streets. Even in the park, the shadows were extended far enough that only a thin strip of the furthest east path retained some afternoon glow.

So I went and sat for a bit, tried to enjoy it, thought I did, and began to make my way back to a library to read up for my lecture tomorrow. On my way out of the park though, an older couple were entering with big smiles phones already out taking photos of the light like it was their first time seeing the city sans gray. Perhaps it was.

Inspired, I treated myself to a full lap around the park. I paused on a stoop opposite my chosen exit and felt the sun on my face for two big deep breaths. I looked up at the last few leaves clinging on as autumn winds to a close. I watched as the branches made a shadow imprint on the building I was stood in front of. Shoulders dropped, spirits lifted.

Shoutout to my fellow sun appreciators: golden hour, sky is the limit.