I went out this morning before sunrise. I spent an hour on the sidewalks and trails. The sky was a deep faded blue, its only colour revealed by the approaching sun’s desperate attempts at breaking through the thick, dark clouds.

It was cold and raining. I saw few cars and even fewer people.

My clothes were soaked, and my body was uncomfortable.

Yet I felt incredible peace. It was one of the most meditative experiences I’ve had in a long time.

It’s been a while since I’ve gone out this early — since I’ve been so inundated with the sound of quiet in the middle of a place so typically full of noise.

I love the energy and madness of the city, I thrive in it. But I often crave a place of calm and peace and silence that is in absolute contrast to such chaos.

Sometimes I forget that they’re often the one and the same.