3 - 4 minute read.
Last week I went to the Houses of Parliament and listened to some incredible women who are fighting for change. It was a long exciting day, full of sad stories mixed with hope. I felt privileged to be amongst these driven women and l left feeling empowered to continue striving forward with my life in the best way I know how.
This photo isn’t about that but I guess the backstory is relevant and worth acknowledgement.
“I am practicing patience as life offers it’s deliciously unpredictable dance”
My day was split into two halves with a three hour break in between. I was in town so I was damn sure I was going to make the most of it. I umm-ed and ahh-ed about where to go to chill. In the end I I boarded the 453, the first bus that arrived, figuring I’d hop off it if I saw anywhere that took my fancy. A lady sitting next to me downstairs was arguing loudly with someone over the phone so I wove my way upstairs to watch London pass by from above.
There were a few moments when I almost got off.
Anthropologie (no cafe though. Shame), Liberty and Arket whispered tantalisingly from the street we passed. But in the end I decided to head to Marylebone. The irresistible lure of a street full of mostly independent shops beckoned. Of course I missed the nearest stop so I found myself walking back from Baker Street when a young man stopped unexpectedly in front of me.
“Karen! Do you remember me? it’s Anil!”.
A friend whom I hadn’t seen for three years. We had spent an unusually hot day in late October on a photo shoot for his partners then upcoming fashion brand. A lifetime ago. Pre-pandemic. A whole entire era. Anil had dropped off socials and I’d changed my phone (twice). Life happened. Now they’re living their best fashion life in Paris and I’m relocating. We hugged. Thrilled to see each other. Leaving genuine promises of mutual visits and keep in touches.
I could have chosen to go anywhere yesterday but instead I was led towards Anil.
There are no coincidences.
The next day was a quieter day. I recharged.
I am practicing patience as life offers it’s deliciously unpredictable dance . When I remember that all is as it should be l find life much more peaceful. I mean I allow my ‘meh’ moments but once they pass, I can allow gratitude to rise quickly.
I have lots of beautiful memories of that day. I’m very thankful to all who made it so.
Take from this what you will and disregard the rest.
Wear Your Happy outfit details:
Ankara childs me-made Ra-ra skirt slash adult neckwear worn into parliament is always a good shout.
Joyce badge is a ‘Treasure-d’ gift
Lady boo earrings. Also a gift.
Gold woven bag bought on holiday in Bali a few years back.
My late Aunt Monica’s vintage St Michael maxi skirt. She would have gotten a real kick out of my latest adventures.
Has your day ever taken an unexpected turn and left you feeling even better?