Experiences

Some days are all about the experiences. On these days you need to stop and do more then smell the roses, or at least enjoy the fact that you have the opportunity to stop and smell the roses. Today I slept in. But when I finally rolled out of my bunk, crawled into some clothes, threw my cap on my head and got off the ship for sights of splendid city of Copenhagen. I had a very bad map, but a keen sense of direction. I had no list of things to see, but a strong desire to explore. I had delicious snack (care of my beloved mother) in my pack and a hunger to see something new. Above me were clear blue skies, around me was crisp clean air, and below me was the ground in which to pound. It was to be a beautiful day.

My first stop was the charming statue of the Little Mermaid. Considered an obligatory stop for the visitor to Copenhagen this site was flooded with tourists--not my cup of tea. However as I stood there and listened I realized there were at least 20 different languages being spoken, yet we all were there peacefully enjoying a piece of bronze. Somehow this piece of bronze sculpted into the shape of a young lady that is half fish half human brought us all together. As one lady took off her shoes to jump in the water and have her picture taken others quickly followed suit. I watched this all occur whilst enjoying the sparkling of the harbor that the Little Mermaid called home. Beyond the water were about two down wind turbines that added such immense character and also reminded me of the potential we have to harness our intelligence to produce green energy. A man from whom I made light conversation with in Tallinn noticed me there and asked if I wanted him to take my picture as he had done in Tallinn. Eagerly and thankfully I accepted his offer and soon was off following my intuition to discover more. As I wandered the streets I came across other magnificent sights that Copenhagen has to offer, and will certainly see more in detail upon my return on one of the next cruises.

After a short while I discover the Nyberg canal. Lined with colorful architecture tons of al fresco dining, and a bazillion tourists. Suddenly I heard my name and turned. It was some folks that I shared a beer with in Tallinn. They were perched on the bank of the canal beers in hand. I gladly stopped my wandering and sat with them. We shared a Danish beer and light conversation. We watched as women in high heels walked on the rickety cobblestone sidewalks. We marveled at this seeming impossible task and the ease and willingness in which so many women accomplished this. After a while someone walked up recognizing my comrades in people watching and gave them a map which they in turn gave to me. Shortly thereafter it was time for me to move on in discovery. After all, I now had a good map. I continued along the canal a while discover a brilliant sand castle in a kids play land that required a picture.

I continued wandering the streets of Copenhagen slipping into some building that were open, free, and pretty. There are many churches in Copenhagen. I knew it was noon as the church carillons and bells tolled twelve. I slipped into one and found my self attending a musical service. I took a seat in a pew and enjoyed the service as an incredibly ornate and magnificent organ sound glorious notes at the capable hand of its master. A choir sang out tones of worship weaving through the triumphant harmonies and melancholic melodies. The pastor read a few verses. I guess that he recited verses as it was all in Dutch. When fellow worshipers stood I stood. When they sat I sat. I knew not what was going on, but the music was amazing and I was so happy to experience this.

Later when I returned to the ship I prepared for the shows I had. I marveled at Lindsey Hamilton’s voice as she sang songs of Andrew Lloyd Weber, and other similar music. I was able to sit back as she sang I Dreamed a Dream from Les Miserables a capella. The final show of the evening is what we call “Starring You” which is awards ceremony/ talent show for guests on board. There was a photo contest, comedy contest, karaoke and more. But the experience that stole the show for me and will forever be a highlight in my very highlighted life is the dance one guest gave for the entire audience.

At 97 year’s young a guest came to stage on her own two feet without any mobility assistance apparatus. She wore about one inch heels and a smile from ear to ear. Her dress was purple and sequenced with an open back. She looked gorgeous as she glowed in the spotlight. The audience was already poised for standing ovation as it was announce that she would be dancing the Waltz. Soon she floated across the stage with her partner and danced the waltz with grace, dignity, and a love that was evident as she enjoyed each and every moment in the spotlight (literally). As the music faded and she took her bow the audience erupted into applause and jumped to their feet. We all had experienced and witnessed what it means to be alive, and we all understood that it is wonderful. This day of experience with a fabulous rendering my the cruise director of What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong. All I can say is, I could not agree more.