Member-only story
London
My heart.
The blisters from London are almost completely healed, but I don’t want to let them go.
I want to hold onto that physical reminder of the miles I walked, the experiences I had, the history I saw. I want to hold onto the salt of the Thames, the mom hugs I gave during London Pride. I want St. Katharine Docks and the Ceremony of the Keys. You can buy deodorant and apply it in the restroom at Blackfriars Tube Station if you forgot to put yours on in the morning. A sudden cloudburst at Westminster is a bonding experience with strangers. Elizabeth I ruled, and rests, here. There are pelicans, and ice cream, in St. James’ Park. Roman walls invite reflection and imagination. My Tesco for breakfast biscuits and bottled water. “Cheers”. The walk to Tower Hill Station along the outer wall and through the tunnel. A mediocre slice of pizza feels right in Hyde Park because… atmosphere. Walking the Millenium Bridge to St. Paul’s. Where Cromwell and Thomas Moore met the axe at Tower Hill. Imelda and her daughter were divine. “Ta”. The Tower my grandfather built. “Good Afternoon, Madam.” Anne Boleyn walked through this gate to her Coronation, and now I am, too. The ancient markets, still going today, where I got my favorite orange dress.
I want my blisters back, the beautiful pain of the City I love. My heart lives there forever. Same time next year?
