In honour of Brian Doyle, editor of Portland magazine, author of many wondrous books and my friend, who passed away on 27 May. May he rest in peace
People come into your life
In a variety of ways –
Same street
Same school
Same train
Same job
The age of global communication
Adds a different dimension
This age brought me a friend
Through a rare combination
Of words, of spirit, of soul
Who has supported and fed
This man of words
With many of his own
As I glimpsed
And tried to grasp and express
In my faltering way
Some reflections on humanity, on life
This intensely personal journey,
Begun late,
Evokes strong emotions,
Connected as I am
To each of my pieces
I fancy myself as someone
Who tries to perceive and savour
God’s graces.
The friend who has aided me
On that journey
Sharing his own numinous insights
Is deeply appreciated.
Thanks, Brian
livedgospel 
Hi Patrick,
A wonderful tribute to your friend, Brian. I did leave a comment on this but just wanted to say thank you for sharing so generously Brianâs words with me over the last couple of years. They have certainly nourished, consoled, inspired and touched me, on so many occasions. So thank you Brian, and thank you Patrick. Each of you is âthat of Godâ.
I feel sad and will miss the absence of Brianâs great gift no longer gracing our days. I can only imagine your sadness, knowing Brian more personally as you do. Thinking of you during this sad time and ever grateful for your part in connecting me to Brianâs words.
Take care,
Elizabeth
Entirely appropriate that I should find out that this wonderful writer has passed from you, the man who put me onto him. What a loss of a magestic and gracious mind.
My condolences, Patrick, on the occasion of your very sad loss, with the death of Brian Doyle. It’s a rare privilege to enjoy the love and friendship you have had with Brian. i believe that Brian will continue to accompany you on your ongoing journey – on call for a chat and an insight at any time.
Love
Anne
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