From Washington, DC, one can fly direct - or with (tops) one layover - to almost any location on the planet. It is a bit of a small town, none-the-less, despite these and other metropolitan conveniences. And though located a solid five-hour drive South from New York City, America's capital appears far more up-tight - blue and black suits dominate a generally conservative environment. Maybe it's all the lawyers...
Growing up in a place like Washington gives natives a decidedly distinct approach to life. If two happen to discover each other at a gathering, they'll ask, "What school did you go to?" to determine high school (NOT college) education. Washingtonians also tend not to be intimidated by fame or power, but are certainly aware of it and can name (or manipulate) "celebrities" most people have never even heard of let alone seen.
The most difficult part about growing up with the Washingtonian mentality is learning to shift from an inside-the-beltway-centric outlook on life. Power lies in an ability to do this. A myriad of Washingtonians make great impacts on the lives of others - they are the ones who have learned from and harnessed the power that abounds in this city.
Of course, every country has its own characteristics and every capital city will reflect these in part. Washington houses thousands of people of political import from all over the world - this is probably reflective of the fact that (despite the world's hypercriticism), America is a place that many millions of people would like to be, to stay, or to visit. For those that can't - the American energy and spirit has much to offer. To refocus on tiny corners where change is happening as a result of precisely this is to witness miracles.
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