That's Zona Rosa

Tucked in the busy streets is this tiny jewel

A gem of a place, like a second home

7101 miles away from home.

Its old sofas are an extension

Of grandma’s cozy living room.

Its picture windows frame mountains and skies

Its high ceiling welcomes the warm Pasadena sun,

All while untangling everyday troubles.

It’s the place to be

With solitude

With book

Without technological distractions

With music sheets

With ideas

With inspirations, intensely magnified

If with tears, quickly wiped away.

It’s the place to be

With family

With dear friends

With special someone

With future other half

With classmates

With colleagues

With strangers, who are not really strangers.

Because you and your newfound hermano

Are linked to that cup of Mexican Hot Chocolate

And that reaction, so unique,

Shared after the first sip.

Ahh, that Zona Rosan smile.

It’s a bond, an understanding –

Formed within the white and purple walls

Where everything is made possible –

It’s an experience and a culture experienced.