Opinion: Lucky to be a Long Islander

Living on an island instantly builds a unity and cohesiveness that augments the day to day battle to have your best life. Let’s face it , Long Islanders all understand each other in a unique way.

They know the island, the towns, the beaches, the schools and the malls. They know who to call for help when real help is needed. Is it not strange how when in far away lands while traveling Long Islanders find each other. With that common sense of humor and way of seeing the world from a distinctive Long Island lens they bond.

Yes, there is no doubt there is a bond. You know the sound of your neighbors car engine starting in the morning or their cat or dog at night. You know your mailman and where he is from from on the island. Then there is the way all can list the best places to buy a slice of pizza all over the island. The best place for an oil change, car inspection or car body work. Usually it’s always someone you went to school with or is somehow related to you.

Long Islanders get satisfaction on the island. Then can feel it’s pulse, it’s blood pressure and are all part of it’s soul. There is a reason all Long Island folks feel strange when they are not on “the island.” The place is a field of dreams, with heartbreaking moments and great triumphs.

Due to the nature of the roads and lack of any great heights, all Long Islanders know about sunsets and sunrises via their car windshields and rear mirrors. We all know both glares and the beauty they create in that big sky over Long Island.

Then there is the Atlantic Ocean, the various bays, and Long Island Sound factor. Long Islanders know about boats. Sailboats, power boats, yachts and dinghy’s. They know how tie up lines, drop anchors, fish, waterski, jet ski and surf! I believe many Long Islanders take for granted the breezy fresh sea air they breath daily. Try breathing the air in Gary, Indiana.

They know the truth about life, both it’s struggles and rewards, it’s ups and downs, the wins, the loses because Long Islanders always show up. They know how dress, lace it up, buckle up and glide right in. They are all Long Island proud.