I have dipped into the archive for our photo today. It was taken 10 years ago at Tooreenbawn, Millstreet, Co.Cork

This poly calf pauses for a brief moment, as it gulps in some air for the very fist time on its own, just seconds after its birth.

Thought on Sunday – January – 31/01/2021

‘We live in an over stimulated, hyperactive age that makes the practice of stillness very difficult. Peaceful stillness is at the heart of prayer and union with God. It is also at the heart of wholesome sanity.’ ~Gillian McVeigh


We all long for some peace and quiet. We know it’s important and good for us. But what we hope and wish for, doesn’t always work out especially when it comes to quietness and being still. Even if we look back on our day so far, we know we’ve been particularly busy and active. Sometimes and maybe often, our busyness stifles opportunities to take things a little easier.

One of the most famous lines from Psalm 23 reads: ‘Near restful waters he leads me to revive my drooping spirit.’

Where are my restful waters? Have I some place to go where I know it’s peaceful and quiet? Is there some space in my home that I can claim as my quiet time even if it’s only for a few minutes? Do I see prayer as an opportunity for peace and quiet?