Winston the Glow-Worm

Westminster Cathedral 

After a late rise on New Years Day we attended Mass on the Solemnity of Mary Mother of God at Westminster Cathedral along with over 500 others.  The cathedral is relatively new being completed in 1903.  It's style is early Christian Byzantine but is interesting in that the nave has mosaics but the rest of the vault is dark as if symbolizing the open heavens.  I expected a polite and ordered communion like in Australia but it was in fact everyone for themselves people coming from everywhere without allowing those at the front into the line.  This was similar to our New Year's experience in Athens and a good example of how charity wanes when folk want to get something  cf Christmas Sales!


The Cabinet World War II rooms were nearby and we spent several hours below ground there learning about how Churchill's war cabinet and high command operated.  The complex was not actually bomb proof and was strengthened  after the worst bombing was over.  Churchill's life was covered in depth and we appreciated him in a new way.  He was a genius for the war period and often worked 18 hours a day.  I was encouraged that the displays did not sanctify him and did not shy from his  blunders including the idea of The Dardanelles campaign in WW1, opposing India's independence, supporting Edward VIII and heavy handedness against strikes.  He was a true hero - with clay feet. A couple of his may quotes captured some of his wisdom and self deprecating humour - I enjoyed these.

• History will be kind to me for I intend to write it.
• Never give in - never, never, never, never, in nothing great or small, large or petty, never give in except to convictions of honour and good sense.
• We are all worms, but I do believe that I am a glow-worm.
• I am prepared to meet my Maker. Whether my Maker is prepared for the great ordeal of meeting me is another matter.