To my children

To my children, who will soon be travellers:

When I see the excitement your trip to Europe is creating in you, I think of many things.

The wanderlust of the explorer is innate in all humanity, and as it blossoms in you it makes me proud.

Welcome to the world.

As you set out on your journey, let an old man offer some gentle guidance.

Record your trip in your camera, of course, but also in your soul. Pause while all around you pose, and absorb what you see and hear but also what you smell and taste and feel. 

Your photos will remind you in later years of the place, but let it also help you recall how the architecture warmed your soul, of how colours and patterns in stained glass made your spirit soar, how a fountain inspired your love.

A photo can only hint at that. Your heart records it much better.

Many of the places you will visit were created, for better or worse, by religion.

Whatever your thoughts or beliefs are, develop an admiration for the beauty created, and good things done, in the name of a god.

It was the worship of a spirit, and people's devotion to it, which kept alive the light of knowledge in mankind through many dark centuries.

It brought forth wondrous architecture, incredible music, and beautiful art, for which Europe is justly famous.

Conversely, you will also see the unholy destruction wrought in the name of this same spirit. 

Learn, appreciate, and understand both sides of this dichotomy.

As you journey, your eyes will be drawn to all that is so different. 

You did not grow up near castles or ports. You have never seen Roman roads, nor seen a sculpture or painting so beautiful it makes you weep.

Revel in it.

Languages and foods, music and vistas, all will be different and exciting.

But notice, too, the things we share with all people, for they are what makes us human.

Laughter and smiles, hopes and dreams, love and wonder. And coffee. Maybe beer, too.

People are the same, everywhere. Get to know some. Find common ground. Be alive.

Finally, remember that you will be walking in the footsteps of your grandfathers, who trod the same cobbles and wondered at the same views as you, 77 years ago.

Remember that many, many people fought and died where you now walk freely, so that you might do just that.

My father would smile with pride, knowing that his and the sacrifices of his many comrades have borne such beautiful fruit.

You walk on hallowed ground.

I hope your journey is full of adventure, full of discovery, full of smiles and joy.

You will always remember this. Soak it in. Absorb every moment.

It will fuel your spirit for the rest of your life.

All my love,
Dad

David Crawford