sunday, bloody sunday

I was looking forward to an enlightened morning of church in England, not THE church of England, you know what I mean. We made it right on time and sat on the back row, not too many members were there, go figure it was early. The assigned topic was scripture study and the talks were really great. Best scripture story I've ever heard, this woman rides the Underground daily so she put her scriptures on her phone that has an mp3 player so she could listen to it on her way to work. Unfortunately her phone was stolen. She later sent a text to the new owner saying 'you needed this more than me, it has the scriptures on it.' I was dying laughing! Miracles happen in random ways I suppose. The building was so modern looking with huge wall sconces and funky organ pipes. I loved it. Gospel is true. Megan, Scott, and I were so tired and were struggling to stay awake so we only went to the first hour to go home and nap before the days adventures.

So Megan and I napped and got ready to go to the Tower of London for the third try. Did we make it, your guess would be right. Negative. Next we just headed to our show, Lion King. As we were approaching the station we saw all these people gathered around and signs everywhere. Apparently the line we needed was closed due to 'someone under the rails.' Most likely someone jumped in front of a train, committing suicide. I can't even begin to describe the feeling that over came me at this moment. It gave me a somber reality check. I can't help but feel emotional and morbid, regardless of the fact that I have never even seen, heard, or met this person. Life is so fragile. The best gift my Heavenly Father has ever given me is my body and life. I could never imagine killing myself, because no matter how bad things are, they are not that bad. Their was this humbling peace that came upon me as I rode along thinking about how many others had done this and reflecting on my life. Why am I so blessed to not struggle with depression? Why am I so blessed to be here. It definitely makes me appreciate the life I've been given and gives me a better outlook and understanding of my plan here on this earth. Megan told me it happens all the time, blood smeared all over with people standing there, on the train and the driver not being able to stop. It's so tragic.

Moving on, we met for the Lion King! Because I had to order my tickets later, I sat by myself in the Royal Circle which was far better than where the others sat. I felt so privileged, seriously great seats. Also, GREAT show. The costumes were so fantastic and the staging completely made the entire thing. Incredible dynamics with the stage and costumes. The first scene all the animals come out and the sun comes up, after what had happened previously I just started to cry, A- because the power and magic of the stage and B- because of the correlation to the circle of life. I think this happened for a reason. To help me understand what's important. Back to the show, I loved the African vibe and reality of the actors animalistic movements. Here's a run down of my opinions of the 3 shows I've seen in the past 3 days.

1. Wicked.

Magical from the first step in the door. Audience is captured by green ambiance and stage set. It fit so well with the plot and entices you in. Great music and favorite voice, Elpheba.

2. Billy Elliott

Simple theater and staging which fits to the plays simple story and demeanor. Plain theater to create a better dynamic and focus for dancing. Best dancing of all three.

3. Lion King

Nice warm glow and feel. Royal circle seating ties in nicely with the theme of the play. Simple starting set, but great changes in scene every song. Best costumes and tied for best music.

This post is called Sunday, bloody Sunday due to the fact of life. Death happens, unfortunately it's tragic sometimes like what we witnessed earlier. Sometimes it's committed by someone you trust, like your brother as in the Lion King. Point is, we all have to deal with it and the lesson is that there is a comfort in knowing that I'll be able to see people in heaven. Love everyone and be careful. This post has a more sad tone, but honestly it was a good day, just one of reflecting. Cheers!