Five Lessons Learned in London by ACHUCKAllen
I love London! It had been more than twenty-five years since I was last in that great city. Like most parts of the westernized world, there had been plenty of changes. But there is still so much history in the city. Here are five lessons that I learned while in London-Town.
- Lifelong friendships are gifts from the Lord. John and Dawn McDowell are those kind of folks. They opened their home to us and (as usual) were so very gracious. It was like we could pick up right where we left off and their kindness continues to bless us after all these years. When the Lord gifts you with these kind of friends, don’t take them for granted. They are blessings and cherished gifts in your life.
- The pomp and circumstance of the Royal Family is fascinating to me. And seems to remain fascinating to London’s high society and common people as well. The palace and changing of the guard and all of the history made (both good and bad) in thast building is, as the Brit’s might say, “quite brilliant.” And yet, after all these years, it is still pomp and circumstance. Like millions of others, I was caught up in the fact that the Queen was in the great house and we were there watching something happen. Somehow, so many other things left a more meaningful remembrance on my life. I don’t want to become pomp nor circumstance, but I’m still a sucker for Royal history.
- I learned what an Evensong service is. On Wednesday evening, we attended an Evensong service at Westminster Abbey with about one hundred other folks. We actually sat in the quire as part of the choir. This Evensong was broken into three parts, all of which were sung or chanted depending on your viewpoint. First was the lectionary readings (sung), then the music (sung) and the prayers (sung). There was no emotion, no real reply to the Lord as an act of worship, but it was really quite beautiful, in an ancient faith kinda way. I found myself simultaneously bored stiff and deeply moved. Bored with the many man created rituals and moved by the fact that at various historical times people gathered in that great old cathedral to ask God’s favor and to celebrate His goodness. What a shame that it stands today as a museum, not a house of soul-stirring worship.
- Culture isn’t always moving in a negative direction. I found people in London to be quite friendly and gracious. I saw people in need and people trying to help people in need. With the hundreds of dollars spent on London Cabbies, they were all helpful and friendly. Sometimes you see what you are looking for.
- Hamilton is the greatest show in modern theatre. We had the privilege to see Hamilton for the second time, once in Atlanta and now in London. This is a fabulous show that let’s the viewer experience the history of our early days as a nation. I thought the actors, score, choreography and theatre were fantastic. If you can ever find your way to see this great production, make sure you take that opportunity. It was a bonus that I got to see it in England. That’s just the cherry on top of the cake! Thanks Jenny for saving up so we could do that!
Have the Greatest Day!
AChuck
