London Calling

We arrived a day after the London bombings, and not surprisingly Londoners immediately went back to their normal activities. As soon as we have set all our stuff, we hurriedly met up with friends for lunch and strolled around the Hampstead Heath till early evening. The only traces of ambiguity are the constant security alerts and presence of police forces everywhere particularly in the Underground (subway), the high streets, museums and even the parks. But otherwise, London just went on with her daily routine--people out in the pub, people taking a stroll in the park, shoppers at the high streets, a flock of tourists, and the usual traffic in Fleet Street.

What impressed me most was the relatively calmness of Londoners. You can sense that people just want to go back to their normal routines, albeit more cautious, perhaps even suspicious. At one point, I even considered avoiding the Underground but then realized that I can't live in constant fear, and the best way is just to take life as it goes. In any case, you just never know what will strike you next, but all you could really wish is that destiny, luck or fate will be kind to you.

Despite several security alerts, transport delays, sniffer dogs, threats or no threats, my husband and I have immensely enjoyed our time in the UK. We were blessed with generally good weather, abundant gastronomic treats, nostalgic visits, shopping trips, and wonderful company. I was happy to be surrounded with family, good old friends and meet new faces as well. The London incident was very unfortunate and such occurrence makes me more aware about how much more vulnerable our lives are today. It also reminds me to live my life to the fullest and what really matters to me now: family, friendships and relationships.