Frank Liddy was a driving forces in the Twinbrook Residents Association in the seventies and eighties, taking a break for a short period to try his hand as a saxophonist in a punk band, before embracing the study of Zen Buddhism and mindfulness.
He has over 35 years’ practice-based experience with mindfulness programmes that have helped to transform the lives of many people across Ireland.
Frank is the co-founder of the Black Mountain Zen Centre and Compassionate City Belfast. He now lives in North Belfast but a return to Twinbrook is on the cards.
MY good friend and esteemed woodcarver Michael Quirke of Sligo city has taught me over my many visits to his shop in Wine Street, Sligo to look no further than our own history for the origins of our ancient traditions.
OVER the weekend, amidst the bustling streets of Belfast, I bore witness to a stark contrast in human behaviour that left me pondering the dire need for unity over division.
IN the lead-up to Mother's Day, my thoughts are drawn to a recent visit to a young offenders' centre that left an indelible impression on me. It became evident during my visit with the group of young people that a mother's love is a profound blessing, a sentiment echoed in the subtext of the language shared within those walls. Without prompting any stories, I heard the word mother many many times like a reassuring mantra.
I ATTENDED a Zoom meeting last week which was all about the science of randomness, a topic which is very close to my heart.
IMBOLC, the Celtic festival marking the beginning of spring, holds profound significance in the ancient Celtic traditions and continues to resonate with a timeless message of hope and renewal. As winter's grip begins to loosen, Imbolc emerges as a celebration of the transformative power inherent in the cyclical nature of life.
IN the words of the great singer Gerry Rafferty, 'If you get it wrong, you’ll get it right next time.'
I HAD the wonderful opportunity to be invited to talk at a one-day workshop hosted by the Aisling community in Enniskillen. The day began with an introduction from their patron, the bard of Enniskillen and proponent of local vernacular such as 'Suckin' diesel', our very own Adrian Dunbar.
RECENTLY I was told the the following story.
IF you can keep your head
DAVID Bowie said that religion is for those who are frightened of Hell and Spirituality is for those who have been there. I can honestly say with hand on heart that my good friend, the Reverend Dr Bill Shaw OBE, is a spiritual giant, and in my eyes here’s why.
IN the heart of West Belfast, a man by the name of Aidan Bradley has quietly become a legend in his own right. He's not a politician, a rockstar, or a sports icon, but rather the custodian of a traditional Irish art form that has been passed down through generations – the Blackthorn stick.
AS I embarked on a recent journey into the realm of the arts, I found myself uncovering the vibrant and dynamic creative spirit that courses through the veins of Belfast. This adventure was a testament to the artistic excellence and cultural richness that Belfast has to offer, with highlights that included visiting the prestigious Ulster Museum Art Gallery and the James Connolly Centre on the Falls Road.
IN the world of healthcare, the concept of standing on the shoulders of giants holds immense significance. It is about building upon the knowledge, wisdom and innovations of those who came before us to drive progress and innovation. This concept came to life in a remarkable way during a fateful meeting between Dr Jim Doty of Stanford University and Dougie Adams of Connected Health. Together, with their shared vision, they are poised to enshrine compassion at the heart of the healthcare business, Connected Health.
AS September continues the air is filled with the scent of sharpened pencils and the promise of new beginnings after the schools have reopened their doors and night classes beckon. For many, this time of year evokes memories of fresh notebooks and the excitement of learning.
AS summer gracefully fades into the background, I find myself treading upon the crisp, fallen leaves that blanket the path, marking the arrival of autumn. I must admit, autumn has always held a special place in my heart. It's a season of change, of nature's grand finale before the serene slumber of winter.