We love London

London holds a special place in my heart, actually England as a whole does. It became the first of many things in my life. My first trip sans parents, my first true love, my first study abroad, my first work experience. It is the place I blame for my curiosity as to what the world holds, and perhaps my sense of humor. It shaped me as a person, and I will forever feel for it.

It is for this reason that the devastating riots across England since last Saturday evening have been heartfelt. It all started as a peaceful protest in Tottenham, which resulted in horrible scenes of violent rioting across London, spreading to other cities such as Manchester, Liverpool and Birmingham. Homes and personal possessions as well as business were destroyed. It was chaos. But after finding out how people have been using social media to organize community clean-ups and find ways to help their neighbors, it reminded me of what a beautiful and inspiring place England can be.

Here are some pictures from previous trips to London.