Recovery. Sobriety. Living Wise.
This past week I turned 70 and for whatever reason this birthday has captured my attention. After years of paying little mind to the passing of time this particular birthday found me asking what I’ve learned about living a meaningful life. Hard question. A lot crossed my mind, but after much thought I’d say the keys to a successful life are keeping yourself rigorously honest, … Continue reading A Thought on Turning 70
Friends, This is Thanksgiving Day weekend in the United States. As I stopped to consider what I’m grateful for, my thoughts quickly went to the natural beauty that surrounds us everywhere, if we remember to stop and notice. These images of flowers, in their exquisite detail, caught my attention. I invite you take a few minutes to look around, whatever the season where you live, … Continue reading Unspeakable Beauty
I have on occasion caught myself staring into the mirror and seeing a bold-faced pessimist staring back. I see a guy with more doubt than faith, and a damn sight more preoccupation in the past than hope in the future. I ask myself, “Paddy Boy, what’s happened to your faith?” The thing is, when I attempt to answer my question, all I come up with is … Continue reading A Simple Faith
What happens when relationships are irreparably broken and beyond the reach of reconciliation or grace? Sometimes, they may be over. But sometimes, I have discovered, they can be unaccountably restored. A foundation of the 12 steps: “God did for me what I could not do for myself.” I deeply appreciate the term “higher power” embraced by 12-step programs of all stripes. It allows everyone, from the atheist … Continue reading Reconciliation
The Moriartys are celebrating the arrival of our newest member, Patrick James Moriarty, born to my nephew Casey and his wife Susan. It has been 50 years since I’ve shared the name Patrick with another family member and it pleases me greatly. Patrick is number 19 of his generation and I’m reminded, once again, of the importance of family. Knowing something of the road our kin … Continue reading The Family Storyteller