“For it is not so much knowledge that fills and satisfies the soul, but the intimate understanding and relishing of the truth” – I explain a nugget of wisdom from Ignatius Loyola, a 16th century master of psychology and spirituality. I give examples in the context of contemplative practice and my own life, and I invite you to reflect on “what you were put on this planet to do”.

In this video, I share a personal experience of anxiety and connect with a common humanity of stress and suffering. I summarise important points from psychological research and highlight a contemplative story about the journey of a boy with his ox. I also offer an image of autumn that speaks of renewal and positive change.

Can you embrace uncertainty? I invite you to ponder a fundamental question on self-compassion based on personal experience of finding beauty in the confusion. It may help you navigate the haze as you partly transition back into your physical workspace.

Joe Biden’s birthplace of Scranton in Pennsylvania was the first spot I learned to cultivate the American ‘Can-Do’ attitude. Don’t my University of Scranton buddies know what I’m talking about? Even later illness as a volunteer and struggle with mental health could not shake it off. Here’s to the best of the USA!

I share my biggest lesson from a recent 8 week mindfulness (MBSR/MBCT) course, suggesting three ways to speak from our ‘heart centre’.

A testimony of the life and death of my grandmother Una. As I reflect on our relationship, I realise that I’m not necessarily grateful ‘for’ all things. But I am grateful for digging deep to find gratitude ‘in’ all things. RIP Granny.

Continue reading “Gratitude in my Granny” →

Is it true that most Netflix customers binge-watch regularly? After getting totally lost in a series, I return to a fundamental life lesson and to what keeps me grounded.

A creative video on how we spend time with our family or community during the Covid-19 crisis. God speaks to the inner critic, the inner observer and the inbetweener again, asking: “What would you say to a family or community member whose cracks are beginning to show? How would you treat them?” Scripture: Matthew 7: 1-5. Continue reading “Value of time: 3 of 3” →

This week I offer a creative reflection on the inner critic, the inner observer and the inbetweener. I imagine their mantras and mottos, and ask who we identify most with. Continue reading “Who to befriend” →

I respond to a decrease in overall satisfaction with life during the pandemic and a challenge from a listener. I draw from Ignatian Spirituality to explore the mellow flame of love that sustains us through the ups and downs of life. While acknowledging the natural highs and lows, I look to an Ignatian rule of vigilance after experiencing a consolation without a preceding cause. Continue reading “Mellow flame of love” →