After her Italian adventure, Esther Law’s journey continues in Lucerne, Switzerland – a city of breathtaking beauty, rich history, and quiet moments that inspire the soul.
Touched by Lucerne: Churches and chance encounters
ON November 15, 2023, as Esther Law’s European adventure entered its fifth day, she embarked on a journey from Turin, Italy, to the enchanting city of Lucerne, Switzerland.
Travelling by train, Law felt a rush of excitement and tranquillity wash over her. Nestling into her seat, she was ready to immerse herself in a world of stunning landscapes and reflective thought, yearning to pen the preface of her long-dreamed-of book, Life Senses.
“There’s something incredibly soothing about train travel. The rhythmic motion, the changing scenery – it’s as if time slows down, allowing you to truly savour the journey,” Law told Sarawak Tribune.
The train whisked her through the heart of the Italian countryside, where picturesque villages dotted the mountainsides and the autumn leaves painted the world in a symphony of oranges, yellows, and reds.
As the train crossed from Italy into Switzerland, the scenery transformed into a breathtaking panorama of rolling hills and majestic peaks.
Law often gazed out the window, astonished by the polished beauty of nature. The lakes mirrored the sky’s ever-changing hues, and she felt overwhelmed with gratitude – for the beauty of the landscapes and for God’s incredible creation.
“It was as if nature itself was inviting me into a moment of worship. The stillness, the grandeur – it all spoke of something far greater than myself,” she mused.
Her pen danced over the pages as she wrote, inspired by the serene landscape and the quiet connection she felt with nature.
Exploring Lucerne’s timeless charm
Upon arrival in Lucerne, the train pulled into the station, and she was met with the concerning chill of the crisp November air.
Checking in at Hotel des Balances, splendidly located near the city centre, she found the hotel both beautiful and inviting.
As she settled into her room, she was delighted to discover that the iconic Jesuitenkirche – a Catholic church in Lucerne – stood just outside her window, its spires stretching toward the sky.
“I couldn’t have asked for a more inspiring view. Every morning, I woke up to the sight of those towering spires – it was a reminder that beauty and faith often go hand in hand,” Law recalled.
After unpacking, she set out on foot to explore Lucerne’s captivating charm. The walk to the lake was refreshing, as the crisp air carried the scent of autumn foliage.
Strolling along the water’s edge, she soaked in the views of the snow-capped peaks looming in the distance.
Not far from the lake was the famous Kapellbrücke, a covered wooden footbridge adorned with vibrant, aged paintings that told stories of Lucerne’s rich history.
The cobblestone streets were alive with locals and tourists alike, their laughter and chatter creating a welcoming buzz that made her heart swell.
“There’s a certain warmth in Lucerne that goes beyond the cool air. The people, the charm of the streets – it all feels inviting, as if the city itself is embracing you,” she said.
Sacred moments of reflection
As sunset approached, the sky transformed into a canvas of gold and lavender, and she paused to drink in the beauty of it all.
There was something magical about watching the last rays of light dance across the lake. The symphony of colours merged perfectly with the silhouettes of the surrounding mountains, and in that moment, she felt a profound sense of peace.
“Sometimes, all you need to do is be still. And in that stillness, beauty reveals itself in the most unexpected ways,” Law reflected.
Later, she attended Mass at the Church of St Leodegar, a historic church exuding an awe-inspiring ambience.
Walking through the doors, she was enveloped by the fragrance of burning candles and the sound of serene hymns.
The intricately designed stained glass flickered as candlelight danced around the church. It felt as if time had stopped; the world outside faded, replaced by a deep sense of spirituality reverberating through each prayer.
“The sacredness of the space was tangible. It wasn’t just a building; it was a place where centuries of prayers had been whispered, where faith had been lived and breathed,” she said.
Returning to her hotel for dinner, she savoured tender cheese fondue melted onto fresh bread, delighting her taste buds, and relished every bite while reflecting on the day.
“Food isn’t just about taste; it’s about experience. And in that moment, the richness of the fondue mirrored the richness of the day’s moments,” Law added.
The next morning, following her daily routine, she attended morning Mass at the lovely Franziskanerkirche.
The soft light filtering through the windows created an ethereal glow that bathed the congregation in warmth. The peace in the air felt tangible, grounding her and allowing her to connect more deeply with herself.
“Faith has a way of grounding us. No matter where we are in the world, it’s an anchor that keeps us centred,” she reflected.
In the evening, she returned to Jesuitenkirche for another Holy Mass, enchanted by the serene atmosphere created by the candles and the delicate sounds of the choir.
The church itself became a sanctuary, allowing her to reflect on her journey thus far.
As her time in Lucerne came to an end, she took one last stroll around the city. She discovered that, despite its touristy appeal, the local people held a warm and inviting spirit that reminded her of her hometown, Kuching, Sarawak.
“Lucerne and Kuching couldn’t be more different in scenery, but the warmth of the people – it’s the same. It’s a reminder that home is not just a place; it’s a feeling,” she said.
Reflecting on her visit to Lucerne some 15 months later, Law saw a city that had taught her to slow down and appreciate the beauty around her. It encouraged a deep connection with nature and spirituality that she had been yearning for.
As she held these memories close, she was reminded of a powerful quote by John Muir: “In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.”
Her visit to Lucerne was truly unforgettable – a rich tapestry woven with sensory experiences that left a lasting impression on her heart and mind.
The vibrant sights of the charming streets, the soft sounds of the lake lapping against the shore, and the fragrant whiffs of fresh Swiss pastries all combined to create a feast for her senses.
But the moment that stood out most vividly was not just about what she saw or heard; it was about a genuine connection that transcended words.
An unforgettable connection
After attending Mass in a serene chapel, she was enveloped by a sense of peace and reflection.
As she sat in quiet contemplation, the world outside faded away. Then came a gentle touch on her shoulder – a lady, who served as a reader in the church, offered her a warm smile.
“She leaned in and said, ‘I felt compelled to greet you.’ With a cordial face, she told me, ‘God loves you’,” Law recalled.
Her words wrapped around her like a comforting blanket – a reminder of the profound connections that could be shared, even with strangers.
“That moment was so simple, yet so profound. It reminded me that kindness, no matter how small, has the power to touch a soul,” she said.
As she often said, “Life is a collection of little moments. And sometimes, the simplest gestures are what we remember most.”
Her journey in Lucerne was certainly filled with such moments.
While still relishing that memory, she realised that life was about the senses, emotions, and the connections made along the way.
As Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “The only thing that can grow is the thing you give energy to.”
Her journey in Lucerne, enriched by that simple touch and message, had indeed filled her soul with warmth and gratitude.
With that thought, her journey in Lucerne became a beautiful chapter in the book of her life – a reminder to embrace the world around her and find inspiration in its beauty.
