Couple of days ago Ellie and I had the pleasure of attending the biggest yet citizenship ceremony in London, organised with the upcoming Brexit in mind. Instead of creating a lengthy post this time we decided we’ll try and craft a video to tell you more about it. There are, nonetheless, a couple of points I’d like to make in writing as we were a bit too nervous to talk about those in the video.
Disclaimer: this is our first attempt to create a video so be gentle with your comments. We promise to improve over time.
The ceremony: nothing like what we thought it will be
We had never before attended a citizenship ceremony and naturally we had no point of reference. Nonetheless, much like everyone else we watch way too many Hollywood movies and the visual we had revolved around a lot of chest pounding, grand words with very little actual meaning, and pretend smiles. To our pleasure, however, London’s citizenship ceremony was nothing like it.
Held in what I would best describe as a typical British style the ceremony was well-organised and to the point, yet without sarcificing the emotional overload it carried. With plenty of heartwarming messages of acceptance and humanity from the stage and everywhere around us, we enjoyed it more than we’d be able to describe.
The ending, in a very British manner gently invited everyone to participate in a charity as a volunteer or with a donation. The nicest touch (I wish I knew how you do it, guys) was that there was no guilt implied in any of the invitations. It was in fact so gently presented, that Ellie and I immediately fell drawn to the concept unlike ever before.
#LondonIsOpen: yes, it is
I don’t really need to prove anything in this regard – London is open and we all know that despite the big ongoing conversation London will remain one of the best cities in the world. It is international, it is crazy, it is calm, it’s charming, rainy, sunny, and oh, so lovely. And will always be open.
The only thing we’d like to add to this is: London is where dreams come true. Millions of people come here in search of success and happiness and enough of them find it day after day, keeping the city a positively vibing place. And yes, when Ellie and I first came here back in 2011 we were not ready for London. Just like the most awesome rollercoaster in the world it requires a certain mindset so one can enjoy it. But now, several years later we’ve come to realise that London’s flaws are much like the wrinkles around the eyes when people smile genuinely – they simply make it even more charming.
Our pledge to London
As you will see in the video above we got inspired to create our own pledge. To add to what we already said in the video – Ellie and I pledge to discover your most charming stories, dear London. We’ll spread your stories for the world to hear. And promise to cherish and respect you for as long as you would have us. Muah!