Wednesday, 17 August 2011

My birthday yesterday

I was 55 years old yesterday. I worked all day and went for dinner with Emily in the evening at Leo's. Then I went for a drink with with Tim. This morning Avril said she was worried about my health and should get a check up! What's that all about? She says I'm forgetful. I don't think so but it's really weird. The more you say you are OK, the more it sounds like you're being defensive and/or covering up inadequacies. Maybe she's right, but I don't think so. I think I just want to withdraw a little from day to day practice.
I can't remember when I last looked forward to seeing my partners!

Saturday, 13 August 2011

Faith restored

I went to a church service today in St Ann's church in the middle of Manchester this afternoon. There were lots of good people there, if rather charismatic for my taste. Then I went to a peaceful, energetic and vibrant Moss Side carnival, celebrating 30 years of good community relations since the riots of 1981. That's got to be ironic.

The person of the moment though, is Tariq Jahan, a Muslim whose son was killed the other night. Such calm and grace and Godly presence. I don't think the girl next to me in St Ann's church was very pleased that I called his words, the voice of God. Someone on 'Any Questions' called for him to be knighted. I agree.

So there is hope in the City, and things we can build on.

Wednesday, 10 August 2011

Manchester riots

They have brought shame on our proud city.
These are mindless hopeless young thugs, but they have spread their miserable despair to the rest of us.
Now, today, it's turning to racial tension, as if it wasn't bad enough.
God help us.

Charity Shield

The season is off to a fabulous start. 3-2 United, nothing more to say.