In The Groove

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Pictured, a pillar in the rather lovely St. Mary's Church in Kirkby Lonsdale, which I revisited this afternoon. This heavily-incised pillar is one of two built and carved between 1090 and 1135, and which still bears the chisel marks of its maker, nine-hundred years later. Just running your fingers over the still crisp striations in the depths of the carved grooves gives you a sense of connection with the craftsman who created the beauty so many generations ago, something that transcends the Christian purpose behind the place: soul, cast in stone. A very peaceful and pleasant space to spend some time: heartily recommended, and do use your sense of touch rather than simply looking...

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