Longing for London

My fellowship year in England was hard for me in many ways because I felt isolated from people.  I also lived in a part of the country that was not so nice.  Very industrial and English men and women who didn't like anyone foreign.  But in many ways, it was the best experience of my life--especially when I lived in London. 

There is something so special about walking those streets, strolling through the park, and then stopping for a cup of tea or a cappuccino at Cafe Nero or Costa Coffee.  I did a lot of writing in those coffee shops, and even though it was mentally straining, I was inspired in those shops.  I'm not sure why, but I was.

Even though I felt like an outsider, I also felt at home.  I was able to dedicate myself to my work.  I was more reflective, more dedicated, more everything it seems.

And I need to get back to that place mentally.  As I sit in my basement apartment, banging my head about how much in debt I am, how frustrated I am about my job and my inability to think clearly to write, all I want to do is figure out a way to get that year back.  To be free to be me.  To be hopeful for my future.