Sweet Sorrow
It’s often said that writers pen or in this case type from what they know. Here is what I know, as much as I have studied and traveled, I still have a whole lot left to learn. I don’t know that I will conduct formal research on this phenomenon that seems to be pretty common but as I was traveling and spending time in London (don’t these words just seem to zing? To younger me they do) I was having a conversation with these lovely British ladies when we were chatting about the differences between England and America.
On the one hand, England/Great Britain/The UK is where we come from & as I stood in awe of the country and shared my admiration for the mother country (I guess you could say) these women began to tell me of the problems with it & I found myself in disbelief but then again I’m also no stranger to politics. I shared that I echoed the same sentiments about my country. Then we all delighted in that nowhere is perfect and there are pros and cons to everything.
Speaking of pros and cons, why is it there are benefits to being home yet we can’t wait to leave it? And then, once we leave it, depending on who you are or how you feel about travel you can’t wait to go home? The irony and silly games we play as humans. As I was observing the way the English interact I still couldn’t help but adore the human race. Why do we fight? Why is there this need to control everything? I’m reminded of the subject of vulnerability. This was also something I shared with these lovely English ladies since they shared with me that they had been friends for over 28+ years, I asked what the secret is to maintaining a friendship or rather any kind of relationship.
We came to the conclusion that vulnerability and the willingness to be seen is an important ingredient. Ironically, I found myself questioning just how “American” can I be in this country without being called a wanker or if I step out of line am I going to be arrested or offend the recently crowned King Charles III? Side note, it was great to be in London during this time. The energy felt fun, light, and I could feel the immense pride the English have for their country and city. Still, during my travels I did find myself shrinking back a little bit out of fear. I convinced myself that this is normal while you’re in a “foreign” place. Yet we do also live at a time where you really do have to watch what you say & do as to not offend. Not that I would ever, but more on digital surveillance and “big brother” on a different day, I don’t want to digress. Speaking of country pride, the American in me was delighted to see how much of our own unique influence has also made it’s mark on the UK, and around the world.
I found places that were so uniquely English, enjoyed the West End, ventured outside of the city somewhat as much as my time here would allow (I already know I’ll be back), and found the Ted Lasso Bar and upon my train ride home on The Tube, there was this moment that will live and stay with me forever. That moment where we all began singing “Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond. I thought to myself, I LOVE that the Brits have embraced our culture as well and in that moment it didn’t even matter. We were united by music and genuine love of a good silly time. I thought to myself YES! Why can’t we all just embrace the silly moments of life and find our way back to loving each other more? Why can’t we just all learn to play nice in the sandbox? None of us are perfect but no matter where we come from and in spite of differences we can all be united by this. Love knows no color, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or identity.
There is enough sadness in the world why are we adding to it? I’ve even had my fair share of it and my grief is something I continue to manage yet it keeps me humble, keeps me open and willing to explore life. We only get this one journey, this one life, we MUST get back to love and learning to live in peace & harmony with one another. We MUST heal or confront whatever it is that is holding us back, life is too short to not enjoy it. I used to think it was my purpose to heal the world, I have learned and as cliche as it sounds, I really only had to heal myself so I can get back to a place of love, love for myself and love for others.
As I travel back to “The States” as the Brits say, I will take with me the fondest memories of this place and while it pains me to say goodbye for now, I am glad I did this for myself. As a woman, especially a woman of color I’m blessed to live in a country to do this or at least travel to places that allow for this. While America is not perfect, it does still represent freedom. The freedom to live as I please, without oppression (for the most part). I don’t know if human kind will ever live in a world where we won’t experience oppression to some extent but I hope we get there, and all I can do is my part. All the world IS a stage and we are merely players and although Shakespeare originally penned the term “Parting is such sweet sorrow” as he described forbidden love, I wonder, could this also apply to travel?
Nonetheless, while I could be sad since I am leaving this wonderful place, I am happy this happened. Off I go back to the city of fast walking, 24/7 everything, and God bless our sh*tty subway anyway. I surprisingly can’t wait! God/The Universe has me where I’m meant to be in this moment as I conclude at 11:11 a.m. UK time. I couldn’t want or ask for more, my heart is full.
