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Javier's avatar

Congratulations on such a wonderful article, Gerard, in which, in addition to transporting us to other lands in a masterful way, you make us part of personal experiences as intimate and of personal growth as the one lived on the shores of Loch Lomond.

In the whirlwind that we live daily, where we run off the bus to the souvenir shop, without stopping to contemplate the wonders that we have around us, it is essential to have a personal marker in the atlas, a place to which we can go to recalibrate our inner compasses, reset our particular north and continue the path in the most spontaneous way possible.

How good that you were able to find your point of reference!

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Abra Marie Walsh's avatar

Oh what an exquisite series of deep travel moments you share here, my friend Gerard. Thank you for inviting me along your journey and including me in your way of experiencing the spirit and soul of place.

🙏🏻

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Beth L. Gainer's avatar

Wow, Gerry! Your travels to Scotland are amazing. I particularly love your description of the inner chamber of St. Margaret's Chapel, where it seems that one can escape the trials and tribulations of a hectic world in favor of peace, solace, and reflection. I felt I was there with you and felt a sense of solace myself.

I believe the following quote from your wonderful post sums it up: "There is something to be said for the spirit of a particular place, some unutterable essence held within a geographical location, that somehow invades every nerve ending within myself, and compels me to passionately feel more deeply, see around me, more keenly." Travel seems to move your soul and entrance you like nothing else. I so enjoy your perspective on what goes through your body, mind, and soul when you travel -- not to mention the introspection that you have with every place you go.

Scotland sounds and looks (from your photos) mystical and simply beautiful. No wonder it has taken a hold of your soul. Your writing beautifully captures your feelings and thoughts when seeing the wonders of such magnificent places in Scotland. Beautiful country, beautiful photos, beautiful writing.

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