Listen, and you will realize that we are made not from cells or from atoms. We are made from stories.”
― Mia Couto

It is time, it would appear, for another dip into the ongoing memoir. This week, given that I have not had the opportunity to concentrate on writing the book for more than a month, I am re-reading and catching up, trying to get a sense of where my story is going.

This section of the manuscript comes from 1978. Rebekah and I are dating and she has come to visit me in England to see my life “in context.” Family; home-town; fish-&-chips; maybe a cricket match; how I am around my parents etc.

It’s a critical time, as she is about to begin her studies toward a master’s degree in divinity at Columbia Seminary in Atlanta. In consequence these short weeks in England comprise a watershed moment in our evolving relationship.

There is a lot packed into this visit, including an interesting few days up north for a cousin’s wedding. In this excerpt I pick up the story in London’s Theater District, before we head down to Cornwall for an idyllic week together.

In Rebekah’s heart, this is the perfect time for us to get engaged. Do I seize the moment, or do I punt? Listen and enjoy (maybe even shake your head a little…) – DEREK