Photo was taken at the National Learning Network, Bantry, West Cork (Irl)

Any little creativity as a gardener can create so many options. This wheelbarrow currently full of tulips is very eye catching on the Glengarrif/Bantry road in West Cork

Thought on Wednesday – March – 20/03/2019

God’s strength to direct me, God’s might to uphold me, God’s wisdom to guide me, God’s eye to look before me, God’s ear to hear me, God’s word to speak to me, God’s hand to guard me, God’s way to lie before me, God’s shield to protect and save me.’ ~St.Patrick

There is always something special about St Patrick’s Day and this year because it fell at the weekend made it extra special. Patrick has massive connections and influence. All over the world, there are churches and cathedrals named after him. There are also schools, hospitals, clubs, streets and shopping centres proudly bearing the name St. Patrick. There are many names too, Patrick, Patricia, Pat, Patie, Paddy, Pakie, P√°draig and Paudge. I am sure there are other names too. He is the world’s most recognisable patron saint and that is some achievement over time.

St.Patrick had great devotion to God and was always sensitive to God’s presence in creation. In today’s world where many people drift aimlessly in life, Patrick is a voice of hope. He took great confidence from God’s presence in his life. In his own personal writings he explains how prayer helped him with his own struggles. He talks about how he overcame seemingly impossible difficulties through prayer.

The feast of St. Patrick is a time to celebrate all that is good in our lives and all around us. It’s a time to acknowledge God’s gentle presence in our lives. It’s a time to pause for a moment in prayer and like Patrick not to be afraid to ask God for guidance, direction and an abundance of blessings.