Spending time on rooftops in Orlando, FL is rare — in fact, I imagine this is a bit rare in most of Florida. Yet, it is on the roof of the Snap! Gallery that I realize a lot of things about Orlando. It doesn’t have the best skyline or the best public transportation or even the best weather. But I’d argue that Orlando is home to some of the best people. The most interesting, talented, and welcoming people I’ve met have been here. Whether by turn of events or sheer life choice, the comings and goings of some significantly impactful beings have crossed my path in this city.

For that, I love it. I adore it. The fans and supporters of this show have introduced me to a slew of magnificent individuals while we document Orlando. People who leave an imprint on every person and place they touch. Often, I’ve met them or grown closer to them in their life transitions. Losing them before really having them around.

In many ways, that’s what’s happened with Lexi. She and I have know each other for some time, but it was through this episode that we came to appreciate each other’s similarities and differences. You see, as well connected and important as Lexi has become in Orlando’s art scene, she’s on to bigger, better things. In no place other than New York City, of course. It’s a shame to lose such a great talent, but I understand.

It’s the struggle of anybody who wants to leave their mark. Do you mark your home and make it world-known or do you venture to the home of your industry and succumb to it’s gravity? It’s a tough question to answer, and it depends on the person you are. Regardless, I’m happy for Lexi. Even happier we were able to have her host a show before leaving town.

She’ll be missed, but it isn’t so bitter to lose talent to the big leagues in Orlando. It isn’t “selling out”. No, in Orlando, “when you succeed, we all succeed”. And I love that so much about the community that Lexi shared with me. This holds the art community of Orlando in tact, solidifying the diverse mix of talent and backgrounds. They know that no matter how far they go, they’ll always be representing Orlando, helping it progress.

If I’ve learned anything from this episode, it’s that you can leave Orlando, but Orlando won’t leave you. She loves you for giving her a chance, and in exchange, she’ll let you leave her and still stand for her. For Lexi, she’s moving to NYC, but a little bit of her is still here and a whole lot of Orlando will always be with her.

Sounds like a good deal to me.