Majestic Heights

Soaring above the urban jungle

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After a dreamy start to yesterday, wandering along the shoreline, taking in the sun rise, I decided to then head into the bustling heart of Cardiff city centre.  It was the yin to my yang.

In the city chaos, I found myself drawn to a towering hub of knowledge, a big city library far removed from my little local library.  As I crossed the threshold, I was greeted by groups of mums and toddlers heading to play group, a retired couple searching for their library card and a security guard manoovering teenagers out of the way of the escalators.  

It was busy scene.

One I hadn’t expected.

Although the hum of the chatting characters in every corner of the building was kind of soothing.  A sign that giant city libraries are full of life, filled with gossip, good conversations and interesting characters.

Ascending to the uppermost floor, I marvelled at the selection of books, rows upon rows as far as the eye could see.  I wondered how many books where housed under the roof of this intimidating skyscraper.  It made sense that in every direction I looked there was a member of staff or cheery volunteer, guiding, helping, supporting and educating local folk.

Lucky for me I found a table near a floor to ceiling window, as I moved my seat closer the sheer drop to the pavement instantly took my breath away. I couldn’t help but peer over the edge, with only a pane of glass between me and the outside world. I was mesmerised by the panoramic view below - a busy cityscape, so alive with movement and energy.

Once seated, I was lost in the ebb and flow of humanity, I became an observer, a silent witness to the dance of life unfolding below.  Luckily I had a total of two hours to use productively or aimlessly mooch around the literature department. But time seemed to stand still as I lost myself in the rhythm of the city, like a solitary eagle soaring above the fray, so majestic, fearless and free.

Amidst the beat of voices and footsteps, I spent time taking photos, capturing lots of mini stories from behind the lens.  Including some of my book selection, titles I ‘d never come across, wondering would I ever have discovered them if I hadn’t decided to visit the library.  You might be interested in them too.  Publication about the practice of writing and storytelling, each one offering insights into the art of crafting narratives and weaving tales of the imagination, some old, some new.  That’s what I love about library books, they go together like carrots and peas.

It was a comforting way to spend a couple of hours on a Monday afternoon, as a mere stranger minding her own business. I felt sheltered and cosy away from maddening crowds which actually inspired me to create more journaling prompts.  Here are a few I created from high above the clouds, please help yourself…

1. Reflect on a moment when you felt completely immersed in a bustling environment, like the city street below the office window.  How did it make you feel?  What sensations and emotions did you experience?

2. Imagine yourself as an eagle soaring about the city, exploring the world below with a sense of confidence and courage.  What does this perspective reveal to you about your won inner strength and resilience?

3. Consider the metaphor of the library as a hub of knowledge and wisdom.  What lessons and insights can you glean from the books you encounter? How do these literary treasures enrich your understanding of yourself and the world around you?

Until the next time

Take care and stay safe xx