Loving Words

The Dutch Gardens in Holland Park are lined with a selection of wooden benches. On each is written the name of somebody who has passed away, along with a few other words: 'In Loving Memory' or 'Gentle, Generous, Loving', for example. I have put in these two examples below.

It's an saddening thought that there may be more of these benches in the future, and we should mourn those who are no longer with us, not just due to the coronavirus, but also due to the ethnic and racial conflict that we now see the US riven by in the aftermath of the death of George Floyd. 

It makes one think about human mortality. Our time on this earth is limited. We do not have many years in which to make an impression on those around us - to inspire friendship, trust and love rather than hatred, violence and suspicion. So I think that it would be truly sad if we did not make the best of those years, and do as much good as we can. Perhaps our descendants can then place benches in parks with our names on them and recognise our deeds, even if they are as simple and homely as being a good family member or a worthy friend. We can all do our best to be remembered with love by others.


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