A LOVE LETTER 2 LONDON

Being in London felt like being in a book, every turn becomes more picturesque. Every building and garden bush seems etched with precision and care. There’s something about the character of the city that feels made up in the most thoughtful way. People seem more free there - mentally, emotionally and physically. When I was on the train, there was this young couple riding together to their destination. The train was so packed and everyone was cohesively riding despite the discomfort of the warmth and sticky closeness to strangers. These two were so present with one another, staring into each others eyes the whole time. The train stops were harsh and became more crowded with each door opening. They hung on to each other and enjoyed the obligatory closeness. Another day, there was an older couple who looked like they had both been working all day. It seemed that they were on their way home. The woman was massaging her husband or significant others back. I could tell she was really putting in effort to relieve him of whatever pain the day had caused. Relationships just felt extremely rich in London, almost like no one else exists but you and yours. Not in a rude way - in a “respect for space” way.

With no cellular service on the train - you’re left with your thoughts or a book or your person and I enjoyed witnessing that. There were even some people calmly petting their dogs in their laps as they rode. For me, it was fun to converse with Phoenix on the train as we rode to our next destination. Completely eliminating the car or traffic shifts the energy to a feeling that invites exploration and curiosity. I didn’t see anyone scrolling when I was there, I saw no children with tablets or electronic entertainment (only mine). After day two, we knew to leave the iPad and that he would be occupied with all there was to see. Out of everything, I would say he enjoyed the tube the most - he loved going up and down the stairs while it was moving down the street. This contained rebellion was perfect for both him and I.

When I visit again, I will spend more time shopping in Soho. I finally found the dream area to shop and peruse just as it was time for me to leave the area for a reservation. I want to experience the nightlife and more of the museums. One thing I regret not experiencing was the tea. The full afternoon tea ordeal. People compare London to New York and they have many similarities. London just seems cleaner, less crowded, healthier and a little less diverse.

One day we visited Brixton and I came across this gorgeous sterling silver cuff bracelet with gold detailing and orange beading. The man who was selling them had an aura that drew me closer to his work and his story. He was an older Black man who said that he had made the bracelet I loved in the 90s (when I was born). All of his pieces were beautiful and it was hard to pick just one thing. I knew I wanted to treat myself on this trip - so I got the bracelet. But - his face I’ll never forget. In general, I can be indecisive. I tried the bracelet on and studied it closely. Not once did he try to persuade me further to get the bracelet or give me more information to sway me. He sat there quietly and patiently. I even left and came back and he was still very undisturbed by whatever my choice may be. He was confident in his work and in his prices. I got the bracelet and I am still very happy with it. Like all of my jewelry, it has a special story.

There is so much more I could say about my six days in this beautiful city - but I’ll stop here today. I’d be writing forever if I said everything I wanted to.