I wrote last month about how I love recognition for my work and friendships that others pay for, like going on the field for batting practice. This time I can’t help sharing about access to another big New York City institution.

A friend works at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It turns out that since Wednesday is their maintenance day, it’s closed to the public but open to staff and guests. She invited me and yesterday was my second time visiting. I wrote yesterday about the ups, downs, ins, and outs of writing a book. That post followed from this visit.

The Met without crowds is incredible. I was there at least two hours yesterday and passed maybe ten people. It was quiet. I could look at any piece as long as I wanted. Watch this video with amazement at the solitude. Turn the volume all the way up.

I happened to pick this room to record because I’m writing about America’s Constitution and independence, but all the rooms were this quiet and calm.

The connection with the art and artists is part of the value. Another big part is the gratitude and connection to my friend who enabled the visit. When I have such access, I love sharing it. I presume others do too. We lose nothing in sharing. We gain connection.

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