Photo was taken at Charlesfort, Kinsale, Co.Cork

This nest and two eggs were seen recently in a large crevice in a wall at Charlesfort.

Thought on Tuesday – September – 25/09/2012

‘Don’t pray when it rains if you don’t pray when the sun shines.’ ~Satchel Paige

Today (Sep 25th) is the feast of St Finbarr and he is the patron of Cork city. Gougane Barra is located a few kilometers west of Ballingeary, in West Cork, situated in a picturesque setting and it was here that Finbarr built his monastery in the 6th century. The weather forecast may be talking of rain, but that will not deter the many people who will make the journey to this sacred spot throughout today. He stayed here for many years before he eventually went further up the river Lee to establish a settlement and the beginnings of Cork as we know it today.

Clearly Finbarr knew that the presence of God was very much present in Gougane Barra, particularly in the beauty of nature that is evident all year round. Against a backdrop of rugged hills, lakes, rivers and streams, Finbarr found great peace. It was here that he cherished the richness and beauty of the present moment. While many of us may not get the chance to visit this beautiful place, there are many places within our reach where we can also enjoy the richness and beauty of God’s creation. His feast day today reminds us all of the importance of appreciating the special moments that make up each day especially the present moment. It is God’s most precious gift to us.