The Friendship Walk
Sunday 10th September 2006 2.30pm
from the bandstand in Forbury Gardens, Reading
The usual occupants of Forbury Gardens seemed a little surprised one Sunday afternoon when two of us first arrived with a banner. To be honest it was quite scary because I had no idea what to expect and still wasn't sure that anyone else would join us.
Through friendship we were a headline long before we became a reality. Everywhere people from many different backgrounds took huge risks to make the idea work, and were incredibly supportive. Even with this reassurance that subtle distinction between leadership and total complete idiocy can seem very fine indeed. Sometimes we do the most amazing things for love.
Our situation that wasn't helped that day by the weather. God rained quite indiscriminately on the whole lot of us. By the time we reached Addington Road the wind was blowing very hard and it was quite impossible to see more than a few yards in front. I was reminded of a scene from "Scott of the Antarctic." By mid afternoon I was quite convinced our event had ended prematurely due to the weather.
It came as quite a shock to find the Friends Meeting House absolutely packed with people. It smelt of steaming wet clothing since almost everyone there had arrived soaking! You also couldn't help noticing an incredibly large number of cakes.
I never considered then that the Friendship Walk would be repeated.
Sarah Griffin