Purpose

In my previous blog post labelled Angel, I ask you to look at my journey with my wife to England, France and Spain to find angels during history. I left the last post stopping at Dungeness then mentioning the loss of Queen Elizabeth II as history in the making as we observe her processions from Scotland to England with people lining the road to see this popular character now part of history. She was indeed an angel forming her wings now fully grown for her heavenly home. After our trip to Kent, we came back to mom for day visits before we headed back out to see the busy harbor town of Emsworth. The walk along the front is very nice. My message for this blog takes the angel theme to “what is our purpose in life?” We can see Queen Elizabeth II’s life’s purpose unfolded before our eyes as her life and death is shared around the world. But, what about our purpose? I wrote a blog in 2016 called “Who is your master” where I pointed out that we should use our worldly wealth to make friends, not by deceit, but by honesty and humility to raise your purpose from earthly rewards to heavenly rewards. As I continue with you on our journey abroad, I encourage you to look at God’s purpose for those in history knowing you are also in his plan.

Corfe Castle remains a reminder of William the Conqueror’s Purpose

Corfe Castle was built in 1086 during William the Conqueror time as an exchange with the Abbess of Shaftesbury for a church. He took the hill and land around it to build this fortress. What was his purpose and how did God use his actions?

We then took a train from Corfe to Swanage which is another scenic village along the coast showing the Jurassic rock formation scene up close in Dover. Onward next to Lulworth Cove. The cove has been formed from the time of dinosaurs and is a huge tourist attraction for Indians as this cove has been a feature in Hindi movies produced out of Bollywood films. We stayed the night at Wareham and walked around the ancient walls surrounding the city. Lawrence of Arabia, an amazing character who certainly made his purpose known settled near Wareham in Clouds Hill in 1935 where only a few months died in a motorcycle crash.

Good ole Harry the pirate now has his own rock named after him. Look to the right.

The next day we continued along the coast to Poole and took the Jurassic Cruise. We passed by Brownsea Island made famous by the founder of the boy Scouts, then on to Old Harry Rock named for Harry the pirate who hid waiting for his next merchant ship victim. The Swanage Bay, Anvil Point and St. Alban’s Head are magnificent white Jurassic rock cliffs stretching all along the coastline. 

Buckler’s Hard Village is a must stop for anyone interested in Lord Nelson’s Naval ships as many were built on this site. His purpose was to stop the onslaught of naval attacks on the British. In his effort, Britian’s navy became superior over all during those times. You can read more about the battle at Trafalgar by searching a previous blog of mine.

During this trip as you can imagine was full of excursions along with visits with mom, friends and family. One of the surprises was a trip to the Weald and Downland Living Museum. The old buildings from various ages of history have been restored at this huge outdoor museum. Also, on the grounds in one of the building’s the “Repair Shop” is filmed. We had a chance to meet a few of the cast members of this popular show.

We spent one day on a train to Portsmouth harbor and took a fast boat to the Isle of Wight and a bus tour around the Island before going back to our friend’s house for another night. 

We met an old but younger friend who we first met in Thibodaux with her husband. My wife especially had a connection with her as she considered her as another daughter. She helped her during a few pregnancies, shared laughs along with some tears. Her parents live in Alton so we took the time to visit while their family was together for the holidays. My wife was an angle to this couple during the time in Thibodaux. How nice to share more fond memories on this trip.

The mansion may be a 20th century vision, but this church was rebuilt in the 13th century and several times thereafter maintaining its ancient secrets.

The next few days we spent with mom taking her out on day trips to Stokes Bay, shopping, visiting other friends, and getting ready for our cruise. We spent one day before the cruise at Hinton Ampner which is a 20th century vision of old English living. The mansion and gardens are beautiful like most old scenery in England.

I end this blog post tempting you with more pictures and stories as we travel on our cruise to France and Spain and back again to England. This trip has certainly been one for the books as we seemed to cover so much in such a short time it seemed. Our purpose on this earth is very specific to our connection with our creator. We may resist the call to be obedient, but God has a way that makes our desires his design. Enjoy life’s journey so maybe one day, history will cover your path to your ultimate goal.

T

Angel

I find it interesting how us humans interact. Some use social media where others are only willing to communicate by phone or person to person. I have written two books already on the dangers of groupthink encouraged by our social connections. What could happen if we can no longer use our individual voices to communicate in a hundred years? Maybe the time frame is closer than we think. Maybe the acceleration of global warming is closer than we think which could impact everything from how we communicate to how we stay cool. My fifth book, hopefully to be completed by the end of this year, touches on the human condition in the future. Stay tuned.

In this post, I want to share some of my adventures while traveling with my wife in England visiting her mom now approaching her centenarian year. She is a blessing to all who know her, and we want to spend as much time with her as possible. My third book called “A Chime in Time” is all about her life and the lives around her. Her life spans the life of Queen Elizabeth II who was 96 years old when passed onto her eternal reward. This a reminder that life is precious so make every moment count.

I started writing this blog post now that we are back from England at our oldest daughter’s home looking after one of our grandson’s and our grand dog. My laptop crashed on me while I was traveling. I had to purchase a new laptop after retrieving my data. The crash was not because I was traveling but because of an apparent glitch impacting lots of laptop users. The IT folks are very busy fixing the same problem. Why are material things so important to us? Because we rely on things to function in our society today. What happens when things break? We may get stressed until fixed. I am not immune from this stress, unfortunately. I have invested several weeks of writing while on a cruise, while chilling at night or watching the waves on our cruise. I could not get to my stuff so not good for my stress level. All has been restored meaning all is well. This brings me to my topic. Several years ago, I posted a blog called “material things or humility?” Have you ever felt you are in the presence of an angel? 

Imagine driving down the road expecting to get to your destination only to discover an extraordinary event changes your journey in life. In my blog posted years ago, I told the story of me driving with my dad when such an event occurred. Also, driving by myself, years later, both events I believe an angel was present. You may be skeptical and that is okay. Just remember these words when you have an extraordinary event. In this post, look for the angels present during our travels.

First, middle, and last visits we shared day out trips with my wife’s mom. She is an angel in the process growing her wings while here on earth.

Leeds Castle is in Kent not Leeds thus some now refer to it as “Kent” Castle

Our first trip out with friends took us to the county of Kent in Southeast England. We stopped at Leeds Castle on our way to Canterbury. As we walked through the grounds to the castle, we learned the history. In 1278, Queen Eleanor of Castile built the Gloriette, in 1321 King Edward II laid siege to the Castle. One hundred years later Queen Joan of Navarre is imprisoned. One hundred more years King Henry VIII stayed with his first wife Catherine of Aragon at this castle. In 1618 the Smythe family created a Jacobean mansion. In 1710, Catherine, Lady Fairfax inherited the Castle. Finally, in 1822 a new castle was built by the Wykeham Martin family. Some form of Leeds Castle has been in existence since the Normans being mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086. Where is the angel in this castle and its surroundings? Perhaps, those that inhabited this ancient dwelling may be a conglomerate of heavenly beings telling the story of English history until now. Lady Baillie is perhaps the main angel as she bought and restored the Castle from 1926 to her death in 1974. Without her resources and connections, the castle may be a relic of the past.

This reference booklet is great with lots of pictures. I recommend getting if you desire to learn more.

Our next stop is Canterbury, Kent. We used this location for the next three days to see other historic sites. The Cathedral at Canterbury is full of history. When you walk in you feel the presence of angels amid a violent past. King Ethelbert was the first to be baptized by St Augustine in the Christian Faith symbolizing the first official acceptance of Christianity by the various rulers in the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms. The year of 597 marks the first baptism and 602 recognitions of this Cathedral as the mother church dedicated by St. Augustine. Several archbishops served until 1011 when the Danish Vikings took over, damaging the building and killing most of its inhabitants. One year after the battle of Hastings in 1066 the Cathedral was destroyed in a fire. Eleven years later the Cathedral was rebuilt by the first Norman archbishop Lanfranc. Construction continued, archbishops came and went, with their marks added for modern viewers of history in one place. Saint Thomas Becket is the most admired of the long history and is still the major attraction for pilgrims wishing to see where this martyr died. He was born in 1118 and reached the status of a clerk in minor orders at Canterbury. His rise to power related to his friendship with King Henry II who insisted his friend replace the deceased Archbishop Theobald. On June 2nd, 1162, Thomas went from clerk, to ordained priest then next day consecrated bishop then enthroned as Archbishop in Canterbury Cathedral. Now that was a fast rise to a dominant position. However, the King wanted his favors and Thomas stuck to his fundamental Christian beliefs at all costs. The jury system we use today came out of the King’s efforts to reform the judicial system, but Thomas wanted more fair treatment than the King was prepared to give. In a heated argument, Thomas is exiled for six years. When he came back, he continued his open criticism of the Crown and that was his demise. Four Knights of the crown were given the orders to “rid me of this low-born priest”. One Knight named FitzUrse whom Thomas called a “pimp” drew his sword first and they all struck until his head was severed. The site of his martyrdom is preserved today in the north-west transept. “Thomas Becket remains one of the great champions and exemplars of Christianity.” My how history does tend to repeat itself. Modern society has no monopoly on defenders of the faith and resistance to groupthink. Whether it is a king threatening harm if you do not conform or a politician claiming his or her opponent will cause harm if not politically correct, it is all the same stories. Stay focused on the one true heavenly king in all that you do regardless of how high you climb up the human ladder. Was Thomas in the presence of angels? I imagine he was and is now part of the heavenly host protecting us.

The Christ Church Gate was completed in 1521 and was the last major piece of building before the Dissolution. Good ole King Henry VIII who decided one marriage was not enough. You know the story. He was perhaps the biggest male chauvinistic pig of the bunch. He wanted a male Aire to the throne and would not stop until he got one. Still failed but unlike Saint Thomas who succeeded to maintain a separation somewhat between church and state, times were not so kind for the catholic clergy who were replaced with a Dean and Chapter by royal charter in 1541. This structure has not changed much in the Church of England since then. Many martyrs have been added to the list since then. Could we possibly get back to this time of society structure some day? If freedom fails, we could find ourselves back before we know what happened. Let freedom ring!

The White Cliffs of Dover stretch for miles. Composed of chalk and black streaks of flint originating from prehistoric times. The castle nearby in the town of Dover where “Operation Dynamo” was plan.

Next stop was Dover where we visited my wife’s grandad’s boyhood home before touring Dover Castle. The weather that day was about 36 Degree Centigrade or 96.8 Fahrenheit which was a record for England. All the current news was about the effects of global warming. It was nice for us as we were touring the tunnels and the weather was nice and cool down there. Operation Dynamo: Rescue from Dunkirk was planned in those tunnels during early stages of WW2. The operation was a dramatic rescue of British and Allied forces from the beaches of Northern France and Belgium in May 1940. The USA was not in the conflict then so if they had failed in their operations, we may all be speaking German today. 338,226 soldiers were rescued between 26 May to 4 June 1940. The castle above the tunnels were bombed but much remained to tour. It was built between 1179-1189 during King Henry II’s reign. Next stop was the White Cliffs that stand pronounced along the English Channel. Continuing along the coastline, our next stop was Ramsgate to see more tunnels. The town is very beautiful now but was nearly destroyed during WW2 when a squadron of Luftwaffe bombers unloaded their bombs on the town. The story of this town could have been one of tragedy instead became a victory of divine guidance by the leadership of the town. They called him the Mad Mayor of Ramsgate but when the bombs began to fall, he became a hero. Was he guided by angels?

Imagine living in these tunnels for months while bombs fell leveling your home.

Ramsgate was bombed in WW1 due to its proximity to the Continent of Europe and its direct path to London. Germans used Zeppelin and Schutte-Lanza airships later replaced with Gotha bomber aircraft. The destruction and loss of life was tremendous during this war from 1914-1918. By the 1930’s it was apparent, Ramsgate needed another solution to avoid further loss of life and property. By 1936, the Ramsgate Tunnel Railway was opened in peacetime as a tourist transport to the beaches. They laughed at the mayor for such an extravagance at the time. Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain thought he had secured peace, but Hitler had more ambitions just to settle so war was inevitable. A weak leader thinks peace will work where a strong leader plans against those who say one thing but do the opposite. Are we headed to repeat history? The town during WW2 was over 60,000 and very little bomb fatalities due to the whole town going underground. Men, women, and children lived in these tunnels for months setting up their homes while the bombs fell above. The town may have been destroyed above but the population lived on. Today, those children return as elderly to see where they lived and played. A trip through the tunnels is like going back in time to see life surviving best they could. Thanks to the mayor, Arthur Kempe, who had the railway shut down and expanded the tunnels for air raid shelters a whole town was saved. Thanks also to the courage of spokespersons like Stanley Ballwin to speak out of the potential dangers of being too passive. Angels were in abundant presence during those dark days of world conflict to help guide those who resisted business as usual in a time of growing conflict.

Our trip from Ramsgate took us by Viking Bay in Broadstairs celebrating 1500 years when the Vikings landed in 449. Next day we are off to the RAF Manston Spitfire and Hurricane Memorial Museum where I got to fly a simulator and safely landed in London. I am sure the instructor helped make the landing as smooth as possible, but it sure makes me think how those brave pilots must have felt fighting for their lives against the German fighters.

This train takes you to Dungeness. See the light house and the nuclear plants. Past meeting present.

Next, we were off on a small train to Dungeness point and a vast land appearing to be wasteland full of sand and Sea Shingle. The first Old Lighthouse was built during King James reign in 1615 and has been replaced many times to protect ships from wrecking along the treacherous rocks. The narrow gang train was extended to Dungeness from New Romney in 1928 as a tourist attraction and has been operated ever since. In addition to the lighthouse, there are two nuclear power stations built in the 1950s and 60s now starting to be decommissioned. This is a stark reminder of the old meeting the new age. Energy is in constant demand, but times change along with politics making this source of energy not welcomed. With the attention on global warming and removal of CO2 in the atmosphere, perhaps we need to rethink our energy dependence. Dungeness is a nature reserve for distinctive seaside plants with white flowers and tough crinkly leaves called Sea Kale. Boats and dwellings scattered about the nature scenery making it a unique place to visit. We ended our trip with friends driving back to Hampshire watching Kite skiers then a quick pass-through Hastings where a battle was fought on October 14th, 1066, between the Norman-French army of William, the Duke of Normandy, and the English Anglo-Saxon King Harold Godwinson. William won out as apparently, he had righteousness on his side having been promised the land by Harold’s predecessor Edward the Confessor. William was a far better leader than Harold and established the French speaking Normans as the new rulers. This changed English history forever and helped to create the modern English language. (Google source) It appears to me no matter what age in History, politics takes precedence over common sense and doing the right thing. The angels are ever present to make even the wrong things turn to good.

I have lots more to write about our trip but will end this post of the most recent historical event in England. Queen Elizabeth II was not intended to be queen as the royal lineage was through her uncle Edward. After the death of Edward’s father King George V on January 20, 1936, Edward was king for only a partial year before he abdicated in December of that same year. Edward was not willing to give up his love Wallis Simpson, an American. The Royal rules of marriage forbid the marriage to a commoner at that time, so Edward denounced his thrown and consequently exiled to France for the rest of his life. We may look at that as a sad moment, but it was later determined that Edward was supportive of Hitler, who appeared to be a savior of Germany. Of course, we know from history, Hitler could be more labeled as the “anti-Christ”. The younger son of King George V named Albert, nick named Bertie, became King George V1. He was ill prepared for his role and stammered badly, but he did his best, employed a speech therapist and trained his daughter Elizabeth on the duties of the Crown. He managed well to help his nation through some very tough times during World War II. He died, some say, of Lung Cancer in 1952. Elizabeth was only married for five years to Prince Philip before she found herself at the age of 25 becoming Queen Elizabeth II on 6th of February 1952. She dedicated her life to the role of queen until at the age of 96 on 8th September 2022 she entered the kingdom of Heaven. History may write a different story as she leaves behind some good and not so good memories that may soon play out in the social media of today. One thing is for sure, she holds the title of longest ruling monarch in world history. That title will not soon be broken. Was she an angel in our midst, like my mother-in-law having her wings prepared for the heavenly host? It is my opinion, that she will be an example of goodness over evil forever in the history of humankind.

T

Fisherman

I find it very boring to play golf or go fishing by myself. To me, it is a social opportunity to share. Can you imagine hitting a hole in one in golf and nobody is around to share? I think it does not count if there are no witnesses. I guess you could make the claim the shot was made, but many would be skeptical. Same thing with catching a huge number of fish. Yes, you can bring home to show the catch but who is to say you got them at a store or someone gave you theirs to make yours look even better. Regardless, I would rather not deal with doubt but back it up by others sharing the amazing feat. It is okay to share with others, but the caution is not become part of a senseless mob. There are abundant miracles when shared with people who are led by the spirit.

When I read in John 21:1-19, the story is so much more credible as it was substantiated by others. Simon Peter and the other disciples had just lost their precious Jesus who had been crucified for all the world to witness. Yet, Jesus had already appeared to them twice after being raised from the dead. Can you imagine how the followers of Jesus must have felt? First, I imagine some doubt, then confirmation by repeat appearances. Peter was a leader as well as a fisherman. When asked what now, he said, “I am going fishing.” And they all said, “We will go with you.” Appears to be a reasonable response when under so much stress. Fishing is a good way to relief stress so off they went. Little did they know that on this day, Jesus would meet them a third time to show them one more miracle in the form of a net full of fish. Instead of denying Jesus three times as he did on that terrible day, Peter was so enthusiastic to embrace his Lord, he did not even need a boat. Jesus met him and the others on the bank already cooking up some fish. Jesus once, twice, three times asked Peter if he loved him. The answer each time was yes, then Jesus challenged Peter to spend the rest of his long-prophesized life to feed his sheep. All of those who witnessed this miracle also heard his directive. Can you imagine the clarity they felt at that moment of their mission in life? Perhaps, we should pray for clarity in our mission as well. Perhaps we should avoid false leaders and naysayers who chooses to lead based on false evidence appearing to be real.

The world is full of misguided statements, when made, appear to be truthful, but in realty are full of words to influence us into reaction. A comedian is slapped by a known actor and the actor is applauded with little repercussions except a slap on the wrist then continues to gain attention. A drug addict who’s fame for playing the part continues to play in a court of law trying also to regain nobility. A comedian is attacked on stage by an unknown spectator with unequal reaction as the known actor in the previous event. An unlawful act of disclosure causes an extreme reaction, without consideration for due process, all with the intention to undermine said due process. Finally, a world watches with horror, the brave freedom fighters in the Ukraine defend themselves from a totalitarian in Russia, called Putin, while no one in the so-called free world takes a stronger action to stop this insanity. This is reminiscent of how the world reacted in the early days of Hitler in Germany causing all to pay a huge price, especially the Jewish people. We can choose to react to the disinformation mob and become part of the mob shouting “Crucify” him or her or we can choose to act responsible to determine the truth.

Jesus challenged us all when he questioned Peter if he truly loved him. Us humans are like sheep in that we tend to follow the leader. If it leads them to greener pastures or desolation, they have no choice. Unlike sheep, we are given more mental capacity to choose wisely who is leading us. We can consider the source of the information and choose to be part of the mob shouting crucify them or we can choose to seek spiritual guidance to obtain clarity in our mission. Choose wisely my friend.

T

Seven

In 2011, I lost my mother to this world. Seven years earlier, I lost my father. Since this time, I have been interested in the significance of the number seven. Perhaps, it is just a number, but this number has many things that make it unique. The seven Spirits of God are mentioned four times in the Book of Revelation. Chapter 1 verse 4, John addresses the seven churches in the province of Asia then again refers to the seven spirits before Jesus’ throne. Revelation Chapter 3:1 refers to the seven spirits and seven stars. Chapter 4:5 relates seven lamps to the seven spirits. Finally, in chapter 5:6 the slain lamb with seven horns and seven eyes meaning the seven spirits of God. In the Book of Isaiah each Spirit is named. There is also reference to the seven graces in Romans 12:6-8. My question is what is the significance of the number seven and why so many times it gets referenced?

There is seven days in a week. Seven represents unity between the Holy Trinity and four areas of the world. There are seven wonders of the world. Even the Koran mentions seven heavens. Muslims walk around the Kaaba in Mecca seven times. Hinduism believe in seven higher worlds and seven underworlds. Buddhism’s Buddha as a newborn rises and takes seven steps. It is associated with luck and magical properties. It matches our memory capacity and attention spans. It is considered a unique prime number. It is the most popular number. It is considered significant in the cycle of life. Finally, it represents a sense of fullness or completeness and perfection. This hit my emotional button at the time of my mom’s passing as it seemed to me closure or sense of completion. Regarding memory capacity and attention span, have you ever noticed phone numbers are made up of seven numbers, not counting the area code, as we have difficulty retaining much more in one memory experience? What does all this mean? I believe that we should look closely at these seven spirits and strive to be Christlike. How do we do that? Read on.

Isaiah 11:1 prophesied that the Lord would come from the stump of Jesse and bear fruit. Verses 2-3 listed the seven spirits as spirit of the Lord, spirit of wisdom, of understanding, of counsel, of power, of knowledge, and of fear of the Lord. And he would take delight in knowing this fear. These seven spirits defined the human presence of the divinity namely Jesus Christ. Can we match the spirits of the Lord? No, but in Romans 12:6-8, we learn we have different gifts according to the grace given to us. These graces are prophecy, in proportion to our faith; ministry, in service to others; instruction, in teaching others; encouragement, in exhortation to others; generosity, in giving to others; leadership, in guidance to others; compassion, in mercy to others. All these gifts of grace are important and some of us possess many of these gifts while some of us fall short. Maybe we have given up in this polarized world? Maybe, we do not realize we have these gifts. It appears to me that Isaiah reference to the Spirit of the Lord is specific to the One to come where in Romans it is for you and me. We can be Christlike and strive for all seven as we attempt to be perfect like Christ. If we do not try, we may not know our full potential. Jesus is the perfect score card that we should all attempt to reach. Let’s take each of the seven attributes one at a time.

Isaiah’s number one being Spirit of the Lord remains number one and defines our Savior. Number two is wisdom where Romans offer the grace of insight. Have you ever had a premonition? I believe a wise person listens first, discerns what they hear, then speaks with a prophetic understanding. Spirit number three is understanding matches up with the grace of helpfulness. Because a wise person speaks with a prophetic understanding the ability to have a servant’s heart to help not hinder growth in others. Number four counsel and the grace of a teacher’s heart continues the growth of others beyond your instruction. Number five power and the grace of encouragement turns those who were once weak into a stronger being. The sixth Spirit of knowledge makes the grace of generosity multiply ten, hundred and thousand-fold. The seventh spirit of Fear of the Lord makes our grace gift of leadership so much more credible. Who wants to follow someone that pretends to be fearless? Finally, the delight in knowing this fear of the Lord match perfectly with the gift of compassion. How can we be compassionate or have mercy on another, if we do not believe a higher power than us shows compassion and mercy for us? If we fear the Lord but rejoice in knowing this fear makes us submit, we can live in peace that ultimately, we are not in charge. What a blessing and mighty Lord we serve!

Footnotes: You might recognize that the spirits listed in Isaiah do not match exactly with Romans’ gifts. Theologians over centuries have added Piety as attribute number six. The set of seven now are commonly known as the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit. They are wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord. While some Christians accept these as a definitive list of specific attributes, others understand them merely as examples of the Holy Spirit’s work through the faithful. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seven_gifts_of_the_Holy_Spirit

An alternative view is that the seven graces (“charisma”) of Romans 12:6–8 reflect the seven spirits of God. The Holy Spirit manifests in humankind through these graces, reflecting the seven spirits of God. The seven graces are: 1. insight (prophecy); 2. helpfulness (service or ministry); 3. instruction (teaching); 4. encouragement; 5. generosity (giving); 6. guidance (leadership); and 7. compassion. This agrees with Isaiah 11:2–3 if “the Spirit of the Lord” is recognized as categorical and “the delight in the fear of the Lord” is added. (Isaiah 11:3, Berean Study Bible) https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seven_Spirits_of_God

Think of yourself as a sculpture in progress towards perfection where our Creator chips away our hard spots to form a beautiful work of art as we strive to achieve a perfect seven.

T

Trafalgar

Brevynym for Episode 6: The West Country[i], the Baltic[ii], one step into Wales[iii] and the modern-day Trafalgar. A brevynym according to my brain, is a sentence that reveals a bigger story using key words of previous stories.

This episode briefly explores journeys in the past that you can click on the above to read more plus an insight to Vice-Admiral Nelson’s victory with a modern comical twist. First, let me also preface this story to give credit to my father-in-law, Ken Clark, who has journeyed on to eternal peace. In clearing out his files in the attic for my mother-in-law, we found an interesting handwritten note titled, “The Modern Day Trafalgar”. Read through the end of this episode to his fictional dialog between Vice-Admiral Nelson and Flag Captain Hardy commanding HMS Victory during the battle of Trafalgar in 1805. If you have some Naval background you may pick up some jargon, find it funny, politically incorrect in today’s world, but also revealing to the man’s talent for storytelling. Enjoy this episode as you journey with me back in time.

I believe when we go back in time, we learn how our present time is shaped by our past, giving us insight, to our future. Let me start with the West Country. From the town of Exeter in Devon through the new forest, where sheep and ponies roam free, you discover the Jurassic coast to find treasured fossils. In Exeter, St Catherine’s Almshouses was bombed during WWII and now serves as a reminder to the brave soldiers who fought for our freedom. Widdecombe in the Moor is a village steeped in history and famous all over the world for Widdecombe fair, Uncle Tom Cobley and all. Sir Francis Drake’s Buckland Abby Barn reveals Andrew Logan’s Cosmic Egg. The story of Francis Drake’s life is extraordinary from a meek farmer’s boy dreaming of being on a ship to a master commander who helped stop the Spanish invasion of England in 1588. He had previously been very successful in Spanish raids as payback for their attack on his vessel in 1567. More than two hundred years later, Admiral Nelson was still fighting for superiority of the seas. As we leave the West Country to make the connections in the Baltic area, know that we are all on our own individual journeys of life. Some roads take us to no end while others take us to a lifetime of memories and perhaps fame in the process of living.

In Belgium the city of Zeebrugge is a gateway to the medieval city of Ghent. Amazingly, this city was spared bombing during World War II, thus sparing the magnificent ancient buildings from destruction. The city is home of a 14th century belfry, St Michael’s Bridge, St Bavo’s Cathedral, and the 15th century artwork called the “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb”. The region of Flanders was made famous from 1915 publication of poem “In Flanders Fields” by John McCrae during World War I. From Belgium, next stop is Denmark traveling by sea up to the Oresund Strait separating Denmark from Sweden into the Baltic Sea to Copenhagen and a fishing village called Dragor reminiscent of Viking days. The connection between Admirals Nelsen and Hardy goes back to 1801 and the first battle of Copenhagen. It seems all history somehow eventually intersects. From Copenhagen to Stockholm to Estonia, Russia, Finland through the Baltic Sea back to Poland the connection of historical events continues. None of us are immune from events of history that shapes our existence.

Lao Tzu said, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step”. The single step this time is into Wales. The one step reveals the superiority of ship building resulting from the dominance of British Naval might won from the victory at Trafalgar. In Bristol there is an old steel constructed ship called the ”SS Great Britain”. SS stands for steam ship and was a marvelous specimen of engineering designed by Brunel. His designs also included the suspension bridge over the Avon. His ship’s design included first screw propeller which became the standard for proceeding iron ships. It sailed many times to Australia and America before a damaged mast ended her career. She was relocated back to her construction dock after 127 years of service in 1970 and now on permanent display for generations to see. Could the advancement of modern ships have been possible without superiority of the seas? Perhaps, but technology may have been a casualty of concentrated war efforts. The overwhelming victory over the French and Spanish on 21 October 1805 gave the Royal Navy its most famous triumph and confirmed a long tradition of naval supremacy. Now that Britain commanded the seas inventors were allowed to create on behalf of commerce not war. This historic marine conflict was fought off the Cape of Trafalgar, offshore from Cadiz, Spain, with forces from Spain and France clashing with Britain. The Battle of Trafalgar made Lord Horatio Nelson one of Britain’s most famous war heroes. Now 211 years later, the day is still marked every year on October 21. Viscount Horatio Nelson who was shot and died of his wounds at the moment of his greatest victory. Prior to this famous battle, Nelson was already making his mark through many quotes that are now repeated by various leaders on or off the battle fields. Below is a summary of this famous battle.

Napoleon Bonaparte planned to invade Britain in the summer of 1805 but needed to gain control of the English Channel. He ordered the French fleet to create a blockaded at various ports, meet in West Indies and then return as one fleet with Spain to gain control of the Channel. The Spanish left for the West Indies, but Nelson pursued and stopped them in Cadiz, Spain. At the end of September, Nelson took his fleet of 27 ships, split them into two columns and planned to break through the enemy line.

On 19 October the Franco-Spanish fleet was trying leave the harbor and head for the Mediterranean, so the chase was on. By dawn on 21 October the British fleet was only 9 miles away from the enemy. By noon the HMS Victory hoisted the famous signal ‘England Expects That Every Man Will Do His Duty’ followed by ‘Engage the enemy more closely’. The two columns led by HMS Victory and HMS Royal Sovereign successfully pierced the enemy line firing into the bow and stern of enemy ships as they passed between them.

Victory was won by the skill of the brave sailors and the brilliance of Nelson. The total number of killed and wounded on both sides was about 8,500 whilst the British took about 20,000 prisoners. Nelson himself had been shot by a musket ball and died when victory was assured.

The era of British naval supremacy brought about by the victory at Trafalgar lasted for a century until Germany’s naval challenge in the first decade of the Twentieth Century.

Now that you have read a little of the history enjoy my recently discovered handwritten satire from Mr. Kenneth H. Clark

“The Modern Day Trafalgar”

Nelson-Order the signal[1] Hardy

Hardy- Aye Aye Sir

Nelson-Hold on, that’s not what I dictated to the signal officer. What’s the meaning of this?

Hardy-Sorry Sir!

Nelson-(Reading aloud) England expects every person to do his duty, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, religious persuasion, or disability. What gobbledygook is this?

Hardy-A diversity policy, I’m afraid, Sir we are an equal opportunity employer now. We had the devil’s own job getting ‘England’ passed the censors lest it is considered racist.

Nelson-Gadzooks, Hardy, hand me my pipe and tobacco.

Hardy-Sorry Sir, all naval vessels have been designated smoke free working environments.

Nelson- In that case, break open the rum ration. Let us slice the main brace to steel the men before battle.

Hardy-The rum ration has been abolished Admiral. It’s part of the government’s policy on binge drinking.

Nelson-Good heavens Hardy. Suppose we had better get on with it full speed ahead.

Hardy-I think you will find that there is a 4-knot speed limit in this stretch of water.

Nelson-Damn it man! We are on the end of the greatest sea battle in history. We must advance with all dispatch. Report from the crow’s nest please.

Hardy-That won’t be possible sir.

Nelson-What?

Hardy-Health and Safety has closed the crow’s nest sir. No harness and they said the rope ladder doesn’t meet regulations. They won’t let anyone up there until proper scaffolding can be erected.

Nelson-Then get me the ship’s carpenter right without delay Hardy.

Hardy-He’s busy knocking up a wheelchair access.to the castle Admiral.

Nelson-Wheelchair access? I’ve never heard of anything so absurd.

Hardy-Health and Safety again sir. Have to provide a barrier free environment for the differently disabled.

Nelson-Differently disabled? I’ve only one arm and one eye and I refuse even to hear mention of the word[2]. I didn’t rise to the rank of Admiral by playing the disability card.

Hardy-Actually sir you did. The Royal Navy is underrepresented in the areas of visual impairment wound deficiency.

Nelson-Whatever next? Give me full sail. The salt spray beckons.

Hardy-A couple of problems there too sir. Health and Safety won’t let the crew up to rigging without hard hats and they don’t want anyone breathing in too much salt. Haven’t you seen the adverts?

Nelson-I’ve never heard such infancy. Break out the cannon and tell the men to stand by to engage the enemy.

Hardy-The men are a bit worried about shooting at anyone Admiral.

Nelson-What? This is mutiny!”

Hardy-It is not that Sir. They are afraid of being charged with murder if they actually kill anyone. There is a couple of legal aid lawyers on board watching everyone like hawks.

Nelson-Then how are we to sink the Frenchies and the Spanish?

Hardy-Actually Sir we’re not.

Nelson-We’re not?

Hardy-No sir the Frenchies and the Spanish are our European partners now. According to the Common Fisheries policy we shouldn’t even be in this stretch of water. We could get hit with a claim for compensation.

Nelson-But you hate a Frenchman as you hate the devil[3].

Hardy-I wouldn’t let the ship’s diversity coordinator hear you saying that sir. You’re on disciplinary!

Nelson-You must consider every man an enemy, who speaks ill of your king[4].

Hardy-Not anymore sir. We must be inclusive in this multicultural age. Now put on your Kevlar vest. It’s the rules, it could save your life.

Nelson-Don’t tell me health and safety. Whatever happened to rum, sodomy, and the lash?

Hardy-As I explained sir. Rum is off the menu! And there’s a ban on corporate punishment.

Nelson-What about sodomy?

Hardy-I believe that is now kept sir.

Nelson-In that case, kiss me Hardy[5].

Please click onto the below links to learn more about Vice-Admiral’s connection with Lord Nelson and his famous quotes.

Vice-Admiral Sir Thomas Masterman Hardy, 1st BaronetGCB (5 April 1769 – 20 September 1839) was a Royal Navy officer. He took part in the Battle of Cape St Vincent in February 1797, the Battle of the Nile in August 1798 and the Battle of Copenhagen in April 1801 during the French Revolutionary Wars. He served as flag captain to Admiral Lord Nelson, and commanded HMS Victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in October 1805 during the Napoleonic Wars. Nelson was shot as he paced the decks with Hardy, and as he lay dying, Nelson’s famous remark of “Kiss me, Hardy” was directed at him. Hardy went on to become First Naval Lord in November 1830 and in that capacity refused to become a Member of Parliament and encouraged the introduction of steam warships.

England expects that every man will do his duty – Wikipedia

TOP 25 QUOTES BY HORATIO NELSON (of 54) | A-Z Quotes (azquotes.com)


[1] England expects that every man will do his duty – Wikipedia

[2] “I have only one eye, I have a right to be blind sometimes… I really do not see the signal!” ~ Horatio Nelson

[3] “Treat every Frenchman as if he was the devil himself.” ~ Horatio Nelson

[4] “You must consider every man your enemy who speaks ill of your King, and you must treat every Frenchman as if he were the Devil himself.” ~ Horatio Nelson

[5] “Thank God I have done my duty. Drink, drink. Fan, fan. Rub, rub. Kiss me, Hardy.” ~ Horatio Nelson


[i] http://alookintot.com/2018/08/25/the-west-country/

[ii] http://alookintot.com/2019/09/15/baltic/

[iii] http://alookintot.com/2017/08/10/one-step-into-wales/