Plate G5.no5: The Sycamore Gap II – Hadrian’s Wall (Cumbria)

Though I knew the Sycamore Gap was on the Hadrian’s Wall trail, coming upon it was quite a surprise – perhaps because the opposite view is the more familiar. This picture was taken on the approach, from above – it’s much more dramatic than I’d imagined.
Another factor which may have contributed to the surprise was the timing. Arriving at the Sycamore Gap came at the end of a long days walking, it was late afternoon, I was tired, and beyond emotional. Stepping down towards the tree, I remember feeling genuinely relieved, but more so, rewarded, and comforted……and grateful.
It might seem strange to cite the latter emotion, but after my son died, such feelings evaporated. It’s remarkable, now, to recall, moments like these, as clearly, moments when healing was manifest.