Shadows & Stars on Urban Sidewalks

Sometimes even the grittiest streets offer surprises

Those of us addicted to urban walks occasionally choose the less-than-wonderful routes. In San Francisco, this means going for the flatter streets if you want to get home faster. It’s called trading views for ease.

And looking down, or sideways, rather than out for the vistas.

I was indeed walking westward when I encountered this handy compass, guiding me correctly onward. There were no further instructions.

But I knew that if I chose to detour just two blocks uphill (north) the scenery would change. And voila! An apartment building had created a leafy border for a more sun-splashed design.

The moral of this story: Do not believe all those grim tales of San Francisco (or any other city) dying. Cities live on; just watch your step.