I was recently fortunate enough to secure a ticket to a Liverpool FC home game in Anfield. A blessing, without a doubt, for it gave me the opportunity once more to set off from Ireland West Airport for a return visit to this maritime city in the northwest of England, where the river Mersey meets the Irish Sea.
Recently I have been reflecting on the power of positive thinking. I realised that sometimes in my periods of depression I have succumbed too easily to negative thinking. I am grateful to God and the mental health practitioners I have engaged with for guiding me back to the still point, that place in my heart where I can radiate the joy that I receive from my faith to those I meet.
This summer God put a call in my heart to go on pilgrimage to Medjugorje. At first I found the trip challenging. But I got solace from the fact that I was on pilgrimage and I felt Jesus and Mary definitely wanted me to be in Medjugorje. I was reminded of the opening line of the Prayer of Teilhard de Chardin “Above all, trust in the slow work of God.” It was into the second half of the pilgrimage when I felt lighter and I began to allow the sun to stream in.
If I could use one word to describe my time in the Isle of Man, it would be ‘renewing’. I’m getting to like it more and more for its relaxed pace of life, the friendliness of the people, the beautiful scenery, historic railways, sheltered harbours and sweeping stretches of long sandy beaches.There is something to explore in every corner of the island and the hospitality and welcome was second to none. In the Isle of Man I also had some time to reflect and pray…
Summer is a good time to take a break. We all need some holiday time to spend in rest and recreation, utilising the good weather and longer days to achieve some peace and restoration away from the busyness of ordinary day to day life. Recently I went on a summer road trip to Waterford in the southeast of Ireland. I have a particular grá or love for this part of the country affectionately known as the ‘Sunny South East’.
Brilliant, Patrick, absolutely brilliant. And I love the photo montage, as well. Helena and I spent out honeymoon based in…
"Give Our Lord the benefit of believing that his hand is leading you" He has led you well Patrick. God…
Good to hear this story. I ran with you on the UL intervarsity team fadó fadó and I feel exactly…
Fair play Patrick! You are great encouragement. We swam every day as children, and in recent years I have been…
Brilliant stuff Patrick. Very proud of you, as always.