Unexpected Detours
An Abundance of Delightful Surprises
I am writing this early on Saturday morning here in Lincoln and want to make a few random observations before we leave after tomorrow afternoon’s sung Eucharist service. At that time we head to London for an overnight stay before returning to Houston.
There is more to life here, and more to our experience, than just exploring and experiencing the magnificent cathedral.
The weather has been fantastic. Cool. No rain.
The people have been so friendly and gracious. People speak to each other, including us, on the streets. We were waiting for a bus outside our hotel yesterday and a woman came and asked if we needed help. She informed us about the bus schedule. Most everyone we pass walking speaks a greeting of some sort.
There has been the obvious absence of our country’s national religion, consumerism. On the three hour coach ride from London to Lincoln - not one single billboard. Just beautiful countryside views.
And, there is the absence of the political tension we have been use to. People are open and amiable, not guarded.
Further more, there is no constant exposure to “breaking news” that one needs to be “on guard” about.
It’s been a delight.
However, there is that irksome and delightful theological word again, smack dab in the middle of this trip we both, my beautiful bride and I, tested positive for Covid. Ugh! So three days of mandatory isolation. I recovered much faster than expected and after just a day was able to get out and walk about. In the delightful shopping area just a couple of blocks from our hotel I encountered a sight never before seen - at least by me. Judge for yourself.
This man and his cat, and you can tell from the photos that this is this cat’s preferred way of transportation, drew the attention of many. I asked permission to take his picture and the man told me this had been something that just developed over time and now, every time he goes out for a long walk, the cat insists on “riding along.” As the saying goes, “Dogs have masters. Cats have staff.”
It has also be an absolute delight and privilege to “hang out” with the St. Paul’s choir. Not only has it been a joy to hear their outstanding vocal accomplishments but also experiencing the community that exists between them has been so energizing and hopeful. The community they have created is a powerful and empowering one. Indeed, a model for what happens when people come together to work for a common cause and goal.
I have been included in the exchanges among them on the group chat that has been created for this trip. The photos and comments shared reflect not only a finely honed team at work but also much affection and good will.
Performing daily at a place like this is something like a “Super Bowl” event for these people. They have been preparing for this for almost two years. Now they are enjoying the rewards of their effort. Another delight to see. To be part of such a group and perform at the level they do, egos are put aside and group is put first. Bravo.
I also noted on my walk a shop that specializes in selling an assortment of replicas of the “cathedral imp.” It is aptly called “The Imporium.” I purchased the two you see and I plan to keep them close and hope at home and at office they remind me to freeze in place my reactivity to those events and people that, according to the serenity prayer, I cannot change but, rather, must learn to live with, around, and through.
Before lunch today we walked all around the top of the walls of Lincoln Castle. Then, went to the special place they have here where one of the original copies of the Magna Carta is kept. A reminder of the long fought history for equal justice for all and that no one is above the law. A very impressive exhibition.
I don’t anticipate posting so many photos going forward but you are only seeing a fraction of what I have taken. Unexpected detour or not, this has been/is being a fantastic experience.