I woke up early at 5:00 AM, the quiet stillness of the city wrapping around me like a soft blanket. My day began, as many of my favorite mornings do, with a short meditation session. Just 20 minutes of sitting quietly, focusing on my breath, and letting my thoughts settle like sand sinking to the bottom of clear water. This daily practice grounds me, and it’s become an essential part of my well-being.
After meditation, I laced up my running shoes and headed out for an easy run. My coach, Dong, had told me to keep all my runs in Zone 2 this week – slow, steady, and comfortable – before I return to more intense training when I’m back in Vietnam next week. The morning air was crisp, the streets still quiet, and I could feel my body waking up with each stride. These slower runs have a certain magic; they allow my mind to wander, my senses to take in the world, and my body to recharge.
Walking Through Old Memories in Moorgate
After lunch, I made my way to Nick’s office so we could walk together to dinner later in the evening. I stepped out of Moorgate Station and felt an instant wave of familiarity. This area of London was where my professional journey first began – my very first company, Neudata, had its office here.
The streets, the buildings, even the pubs felt like a walk down memory lane. I remembered my early career days – the hustle of working in a start-up, the excitement of learning something new every day, the friendshipa among colleagues. There was an energy in those times that I will always be grateful for. Those experiences shaped my work ethic and my curiosity.
What I’ve always loved about the City of London is its mix of historic and modern architecture. Towering glass skyscrapers reflect sunlight next to centuries-old stone buildings, each holding its own story. The sun was still shining, and the sky was an unbroken blue – rare for London in any season – which made my walk all the more enjoyable.
A Chai Latte
Before heading to Nick’s office, I decided to stop at a coffee shop near my old workplace. Years ago, this location was a tailored suit shop – the kind of place where the craftsmanship was as much an art as a trade. Now, it had been transformed into a cozy café, complete with a wide front window perfect for people-watching.
I ordered a chai latte and settled into a seat by the window. From there, I could see a familiar pub – one where my colleagues and I used to unwind after work. I remembered the laughter, the debates over pints, the shared victories, and the way we’d talk about our dreams for the future.
Sitting there, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the chapter of my life that London represents. Time really does fly – it feels like only yesterday that I was that fresh-faced newcomer eager to prove herself in the professional world.
A Sunset Walk Along the River Thames
When Nick finished work, we decided to walk along the River Thames to the dinner spot instead of taking the Tube. It was one of those perfect London late afternoons – warm, golden sunlight, a gentle breeze, and the kind of light that makes the city’s landmarks look like they’ve stepped straight out of a postcard.
We walked for an hour and a half, talking about everything from our life journeys over the past few years to our favorite memories of London. We passed by Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey, each glowing in the soft early evening light. The river sparkled beside us, reflecting both the modern skyline and the timeless charm of the city.
Walking through London always reminds me that the city itself feels alive. It changes constantly, yet somehow keeps the same heartbeat – a mix of ambition, history, and quiet moments.
Dinner With Loved Ones
By 6:00 PM, we arrived at the restaurant where my little brother and Cristina were waiting. Seeing my brother always fills me with joy; we’ve shared so much life together, yet every meeting feels like a chance to make new memories.
Dinner was the perfect ending to an already wonderful day. Good food, laughter, and conversation flowed effortlessly. As I looked around the table, I felt deeply grateful – grateful for friendships that last, for family, for health, for the chance to live moments like this in a city I love.
Reflections on a Day Well-Lived
As I walked back home under the soft glow of the street lamps, I realized that today wasn’t extraordinary because of any grand event – it was special because of the small moments strung together:
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A peaceful early morning run.
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Reconnecting with a friend who shares my values.
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Revisiting places that shaped my early career.
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Enjoying the sunshine in a city often known for its rain.
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Taking a slow walk along the Thames with an old friend.
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Ending the day with a warm meal and even warmer company.
Life is often like London weather – unpredictable, with sudden bursts of sunshine between the clouds. You can’t control the forecast, but you can savor the moments when the light breaks through.
What stood out most about today wasn’t just the good weather or the pleasant company – it was the mindset of gratitude I carried with me. Over the years, I’ve learned that gratitude isn’t just about appreciating the big wins; it’s about noticing the little joys: the warmth of the sun, the smell of fresh coffee, the sound of footsteps on familiar streets.
In mindfulness, we talk about being present – fully aware of what’s happening in the moment without wishing it were different. Today was a practice in presence.
As I sit here writing, I realize that days like this are easy to overlook if we’re too caught up in deadlines, phone screens, or to-do lists. But they’re also the days that sustain us—the ones we remember years later not for what we achieved, but for how we felt.
London has been a chapter in my life filled with growth, friendship, and countless walks along the river. Today reminded me that no matter where life takes me, this city will always feel like home.
And so, I go to sleep tonight with a full heart, already looking forward to the next day when the morning light peeks through my window, inviting me to get up and embrace whatever small, beautiful moments await.