Living by a main road and near a notorious estate known for being rough has made me feel a little sad that I am not living in the countryside or by the sea anymore. In Norfolk I was surrounded by farms, country roads and a little market town where everyone knew everyone (near enough). In Plymouth it was not always the friendliest of areas, but there was always an opportunity to walk to Plymouth Hoe and look out across the water and escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The city of Exeter is beautiful. I love walking around near the cathedral and taking a stroll along the quay. However, I was beginning to miss the opportunity of being still and enjoying the quiet serenity. Today I discovered the calm was closer than I initially imagined. I found myself walking along a footpath/cycle-path enjoyed by countless others before me – and the best thing was it started just a two-minute walk away from our house.
It led me across different bridges where trains soared underneath and where water flowed below. Within minutes I was away from the main road and enjoying the hidden delights beyond. I could appreciate the leaves changing their colour, as they say goodbye to their green summer jacket and replace it with their orange jumpsuit as they know that autumn is on its way. I could here the water babbling behind a wardrobe of trees hanging loosely together. I would occasionally hear the ‘ting’ of a bell to signal that a cyclist was approaching; I could hear the panting of dogs and the crunching of earth as their walkers trundled through behind them. It was a side of Exeter that I hoped existed and have now had the pleasure of witnessing.
I have always felt at peace in nature. There is something so wonderful about being surrounded by beautiful flowers, plants. trees, creatures, open spaces, water… it is just a reflection of our wonderful Creator!
Nehemiah 9:6 (NIV):
“You alone are the Lord. You made the heavens, even the highest heavens, and all their starry host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. You give life to everything, and the multitudes of heaven worship you.”
I am planning to explore more of Exeter and I will update you with photos when I can (I forgot to take some today!). Enjoy your day and keep looking out for the small blessings around you.
An Anchored Hope 