J is for Julian of Norwich
Julian was a writer and mystic who lived from 1342 to c. 1429. She was the first woman to write a book in English, and she did this while living as an anchoress/hermit in a small room attached to St Julian’s Church. The cell had windows, through which she could speak to the many people who came to her for comfort and advice.
The cell was pulled down during the reformation, but rebuilt after the second world war, and is now a place of pilgrimage for many.
Although Julian lived a solitary life of prayer and contemplation she would have had a cat for company and mouse control. Julian’s most famous saying is “All shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of things shall be well”.
“I was privileged to see her cell
where she announced ‘All shall be well’.”
Isn’t it lovely to think she had a cat for company?
LikeLike
Yes, and in fact she also had a servant to prepare her meals and pass them through the window, so life wasn’t too hard.
LikeLike
Nice!
LikeLike
What beautiful simplicity. I’ve always felt a connection with Julian of Norwich, so it’s good to see these photos. Thank you Ruth.
LikeLike
She was certainly a most amazing woman, and a continuing inspiration to many.
LikeLike
I remember her wisdom often. How special to have visited where she lived and contemplated. I often think that cats do a lot of contemplation…..as well as sleeping!
LikeLike
I’m sure Bentley would agree with you.
LikeLike
[…] The author gives the context for Julian’s book and marvels that the writing remains optimistic, hopeful, and positive, despite the death carts that must have trundled past her cell carrying victims of the plague. She reiterates that Julian’s words, which exist outside time will always ring true whenever and wherever they are read. I feel privilaged to have read such an excellent outline of Julian’s life, and to have had the opportunity to visit her rebuilt cell in Norwich. […]
LikeLike