Day 21: Reflection
I was already up when the 6:00 announcement came over the speaker that the ferry would be docking at 7:00and that the onboard cafes were serving breakfast. Once we docked the bus station was just across the street I had booked a 10:00 bus just to be on the safe sag so I had a couple hours to kill. The bus station was attached to a mall so went inside to a cafe and sate and checked out some online information for Edinburgh.
When my bus came I got some help from the driver and got m bike loaded in the hold. The ride was about three an da half hours to Edinburgh so I took a little nap at the beginning—I had been up early, and riding in a vehicle (if I am not driving) often puts me to sleep.
I had plenty of time on the road when I was awake and conscious and able to enjoy the passing scenery, very green and rolling. The presence of so many large trees stands out form the islands and northern parts of Scotland where I spent my time biking. The countryside is amazing, and I can’t wait for Crystal to get here so we can explore together.
It is nice taking the bus into Edinburgh as it is busy trafficky city and that type of riding is never fun. Once at the bus station I go my bike off the bus and all my bags back on it. My hostel is not very far from the station and after a few minutes I had my bearings and was arriving at Destiny Student House. It is a large, modern, clean, well-managed operation. I think the building may house students during the school year. The room and the layout inside seem very dorm like.
I flopped for a while, talked to Crystal and did some writing. I am staying in the Abbeyhill area which is close to the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the King’s Gallery. I decided to go for a walk and get my bearings. I really don’t plan on going to or at least paying for any sights as Crystal and I will do those together.
I walked up through the New Carlton Cemetery, passed the Burns Monument, and walk to the top of Carlton Hill which has a great view of the city and surrounding area. The hill is also home to several other monuments including the Duvall Stewart monument, the Observatory House, the National Monument, and the Nelson Monument which is entirely encased in scaffolding and not visible.
All the walking had made me hungry so I headed closer to town and found a a multitude of options including Five Guys. No, I did not eat there, but I did eat Mexican—tacos and nachos. I am no longer in the country. The abundance of diverse restaurants is accompanied by a multitude of people—tourists and locals. Edinburgh is an amazing and beautiful city—I forgot how beautiful—so I can understand why people are drawn here.
While waiting for my bus today in Aberdeen a guy rode up on a bicycle and was asking about my bike and where I had been. He has also done some serious touring here and around the world. He mentioned the most of the people in Scotland haven’t been to some of the remote areas I have—even he hasn’t been to Cape Wrath. I do feel completing the route I planned is quite an accomplishment. I don’t want to say pride, which seems to have some negative overtones. It is hard it is always a fine balance—relishing accomplishments but not going to pride, standing up for oneself but not being aggressive, being strong but not overbearing. With all the time I have for thought and self-reflection I have asked myself several questions about my motives and thoughts which are revealed in my actions. There is so much room for improvement. One of the main areas is more understanding towards others. If I am struggling which so much shouldn’t I exhibit compassion, tolerance and forgiveness to others.
I walked in the late afternoon which by now you know is one of my favorite times of the day. I walked a similar route home to the hostel passing the Holyroodhouse and the small garden outside the gates.
I have had such wonderful trip so far and am reflecting on the dramatic and stunning scenery, the hard work and sense of accomplishment, and the support and love I have received from my wife, family and friends. Thank you.
This featured blog entry was written by guylch75 from the blog Scottish Isles.
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