When Sue and I went into town last weekend, we received leaflets alerting us that there would be demonstrations this Saturday by two racist, opposing political factions, neither supported by the local citizens. I was pleasantly surprised to see the Leicester response. A peace vigil was organized for Friday evening, and Sunday was the Leicester marathon and We Are One Leicester festival, held at the site of the previous day's demonstrations. The promotional brochure read, "All welcome to the events. Come along and show you're proud to live in Leicester, promote peace and oppose hate, celebrate what is great about our city." People were also asked to wear lime green at the events to show support.
The weather was bleak on Saturday, and Sue and I stayed home during the day. She completed preparations for her trip to Syria and suggested that we go to the local pub in the evening. It had a warm and inviting atmosphere, and Sue explained that historically drinking establishments were divided into pubs, where the public drank, and saloons, for the higher classes--both under one roof. We entered on the pub side, but finding no one staffing the bar, we had to "cross over" to the saloon to get our drinks. I noticed the decor was a bit nicer there, and there was carpeting on the floor. We returned to the pub and sat and watched four young guys play darts. I commented that I was surprised at how quiet they were. "What do you mean?" Sue asked. I explained in the States they would be rowdy and laughing and slapping each other on their backs. "Oh, that wouldn't be allowed here," came her response. "The patron would throw them out." So the "blokes" finished their game, sat quietly talking with their pints, and left. Sue offered to buy "the other half" (another round) before we tottered home in the chilly night.
Her taxi picked her up early Sunday morning, and I did a load of wash before walking in to town. I passed through the half/marathon site and was surprised at the diversity of the folks running, walking, and hobbling. (I saw one young woman complete the half-marathon on crutches!) I was particularly impressed with how the locals, police force, and other runners supported the runners. There was continuous applause and words of encouragement--"Well done!"--along the route throughout the hours of the race.
It was a brilliant fall day, and I was out in just a sweater. After some window shopping, I started the long walk home. By the time I stopped for groceries, my leg was reminding me that it wasn't "all better" yet. I soaked it in a hot tub and then made some pizza for dinner. (Sue left me with an assortment of sweet peppers, which I am enjoying immensely.) I went to bed rather early, but Milly didn't join me. Yet. (Sue is betting that the cat will cave by Wednesday.)
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