Urban perspective

Thankfully, even in the city centre it is possible to find some leafy shade  which provides a welcome retreat from the bustle of Southampton’s shopping area.
But then, if you are intent on shopping, you probably would not search out the alternative areas around.
Fortunately when the city was rebuilt after the devastation of wartime bombing, much was made of the city’s parks sitting alongside the main thoroughfare.  The focus for shopping has moved since then, although the parks still remain.
It is within the newer retail developments that I came across this pleasant open trail, but it is not until you take the trouble to walk , or run it, that the true merit of this aspect of the city comes to life.
Yet, I have crossed the road at this point many times, and visited the shopping centres on either side, without realising just how well the city continues to merge the benefit of country ways with the urban development.
Truth is that I am always in too much of a hurry and intent on the purpose of what is often referred to as retail therapy to take a step back and appreciate what else is around.

It’s well worth the effort, and the reward as great as to be found in the shopping mall.  Maybe in a busy world, even more so?