London

  London, United Kingdom
Thursday, April 12, 2007

Trip to London overnight was comfortable and pleasant. We arrived just before dawn. I felt excited at finally reaching the United Kingdom. There are so many influences in my childhood that were derived from Mother England. Guided through the airport and met briefly then driven to my hotel by a driver. Already the people impressed me with a courtesy and cheerfulness that is slightly understated.

The landmass is very different to anywhere I have been. Here, the kingdoms are tightly interwoven - especially compared to Australia. In England, the mineral, plant and animal kingdoms seem to function as one. The human overlay is so entrenched and integrated over time, that the land itself seems reconciled. In Australia, the human kingdom is very much a (+1) and is so obviously not integrated that is seems to be almost an intrusion.

I spent the day in Hyde Park, London.

At Princess Dianna's memorial I join a small respectful group. There is a reverence here, an honouring and recognition of what is truly of value and sacred.


Everywhere are fantastic statues.


I loved the swans and lakes:

It is beautiful and carefully and thoughtfully tendered. The people love their park.

So many memories flit through my mind from books by Enid Blyton; poems about Winnie the Poo; prose and stories of fairies and elves, history lessons about Kings and Queens, Shakespeare and Covent Garden.

Magic is definitely there and not just in my mind. I could see and feel how this land itself has inspired so much over the millennia.

There is gentleness and quietness to the city even 'though it is a busy one. The buildings and roads are narrow and the rooms small as the people are almost apologetic about their existence.

A much needed overnight stay then off to Buckingham Palace. In a rare occurrence, the changing of the guard is cancelled and the cabbie is amazed -"Most unusual" he keeps shaking his head.


I am so aware of the golden overlays upon the gates and buildings. Here, wealth is discreet and power is self contained - almost self conscious?

Finally driven off the airport to fly to Inverness. Nostalgia brings a brief moment of regret that I hadn't booked more time here. Perhaps one day ...