The Eaton Diary of London 2001
A tour of London on the open-topped Double
Decker tourist bus seemed like the best way to get an overview of this historic
town. Despite the cold and threatening weather, the four of us thoroughly
enjoyed the tour. The entertaining commentary helped put things in an historical
and cultural perspective, and provided excellent tips for places to visit at a
later date. It all made quite an impression on us. For example, I couldn’t
fathom the thought that a building we past was built before Columbus sailed that
legendary ‘ocean blue.’ And all those monuments to man’s incredible
achievements, both worthy and tragic, left me awestruck. At every turn there
were contrasting unanswerable questions. Why can’t they build buildings like
that today? How could men be so cruel? Who could afford to live there? How can
Godly foundations result in such Godlessness?
A highlight of the day was the gorgeous sound
of the choir rehearsing in Westminster Abbey. We were doing the tourist tour,
trying to overcome the feeling that we were visiting a cemetery rather than a
cathedral, when the beautiful acoustic sounds floated through the lofty arches.
The unique sound of the dozen boy sopranos and similar number of tenors and
basses brought the Abbey to life as they prepared for a Holy Week concert. It
was a delight to see these young boys happily joining with the men, and working
so hard to perfect their performance. Less delightful was the promotional poster
of the concert that displayed the theme, “The Darkness of God”. Passion week
does highlight darkness but the darkness of man rather the darkness of God. For
me, the poster demonstrated the tragic loss of light and life that seems to
typify much religious activity which is built on man’s traditions rather than
on God’s presence. One can’t but be impressed by the past evidence of
God’s blessing of this nation, with the central place given to churches in
every city square, and the numbers of godly men and women who have had such
influence throughout the world, but how tragic that the light no longer shines
brightly.
What better way to top off a day of feasting
on the traditional delights of London, than to enjoy the ultimate of local fare
- Fish and Chips at the Sherlock Holmes Pub?
We
were well satisfied, refreshed and inspired by our day out. So much so, we
gladly walked all the way from Trafalgar Square back to the Hotel in Euston
Street. (At least, a leisurely walk was much more desirable option than
attempting another crowded Tube ride.)
© Copyright 2001 H Grant Eaton Contact: granteaton@usa.net