Living Among the Dead: A Unique Perspective in Queens
For many, finding an apartment in New York City can be a harrowing experience, but for Caroline Shadood, residing next to vast cemeteries in Glendale, Queens, is just another chapter of urban living. With Evergreen Cemetery and Knollwood Park Cemetery as her closest neighbors, Shadood takes an unconventional approach to her home surrounded by the quietest of communities: the deceased.
Finding Space and Serenity Amidst Graveyards
As Shadood describes, living next to these expansive graveyards is less macabre than it might sound. In fact, being a short walk from these landscapes offers a surprising benefit: fresh air and tranquility. "My neighborhood feels like a peninsula, bordered by cemeteries. It’s almost serene, especially around Halloween when the ambiance transforms with decorations and stories, making it a uniquely festive experience," she shares.
The Journey to a New Home
Shadood’s journey to her two-bedroom apartment was anything but typical. After facing unsettling circumstances with her previous landlord, who was incarcerated for serious crimes, she sought a quick escape. Thankfully, through a friend’s connection, she found sanctuary in a building owned by her friend’s mother, a place where she could breathe and enjoy the quiet solitude.
Connecting with Community Spirits
Interestingly, Shadood’s perspective highlights the often-overlooked aspects of community living near cemeteries. While many cities perceive graveyards as ominous, she perceives them as spaces filled with history and stories waiting to be explored. She humorously notes how neighbors treat the graveyards with respect, often turning them into havens for peaceful afternoon walks.
Life in Queens: A Tapestry of Experiences
Through her experiences, Shadood embodies the spirit of what it means to live in a diverse, ever-evolving part of New York City. Rather than viewing her surroundings with fear or disdain, she embraces the uniqueness of her living conditions, fostering a sense of connection to the past and the stories of its residents. In a city bustling with life, Shadood's story serves as a reminder of the tranquility that can also be found amidst urban chaos.
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