The Mindful Farmers Daily Diary Day 1117

“Tribute to Mick O’Neill, our Connemara Dad"

I first met with Mick when I was just 21 years old and he welcomed Miriam and I into his and Mary Anne's home in Cuilleain. I often reminisce on that day and the welcome extended to me and us as a family over the 46 years that followed. It was special and so special that we always referred to Mick and Mary Anne as our Connemara parents. When a great friend passes the memories come flooding inwards. I think back when Mick and the family would take us for a drive around his favourite places in the area. We would all flock into his red delivery van, each one of us in special seats he had made and fitted for a Sunday drive but then Mick was a master craftsman. He could turn wood as Shakespeare would turn words. I think also of the great work he has done for us both in Cuilleain and in Ballinwillin and the chats by the fireside at night when we might share a rum and black or two. Mick was an extraordinary man of his time and even before and beyond his time with his fertile and imaginative mind. Mick will always dwell in a warm place in our hearts. Your wonderful, youthful spirit will always be alive, awake and smiling. There will no longer be distance now between you, Mary Anne and your loving ancestors. We cannot see you anymore with our outward eyes yet we know for sure your gaze will always be focused on those you loved and honoured so deeply here on earth. Smile down on us Mick with your kind glow. You will always inspire us and may these moments of grief burst with flowers of spring hope in every heart that loves you and that you so dearly loved. You are now in the garden where there is no separation. Rest deeply and peacefully my great, great friend and caress all our hearts with your wonderful, loving and creative hands. This is just and earthly parting, we will continue to chat in prayer at least daily and give all our love to Mary Anne. 

Warmest, warmest love,

Patrick Mulcahy

The Mindful Farmer and Peace Coach