It’s six months since I started the blog — so I’ve kept my resolution, and seen this experimental period through to its end.
I won’t give another profound reflection here on the nature of blogging, the transformation of human identity wrought by the internet, the psychology of self-doubt experienced whenever the stats page opens up, etc. This is just to say that I’ve decided to keep going and see where it all ends up.
I thought of changing the name to ‘Bridges, Tangents, and Piers’. I was in Llandudno this morning; a beautiful seaside town on the north Wales coast. It’s got one of those classic British piers, beloved of so many childhood holidays.
![Llandudno Pier by Welshdan [CCL] http://www.flickr.com/photos/welshdan/3582815894/ Llandudno Pier by Welshdan.](https://i0.wp.com/farm4.static.flickr.com/3327/3582815894_8166e2dffb.jpg)
Llandudno pier
My first ever screenprint for O-level art was a pier. The first layer of ink created a dark and slightly frightening latticework of pillars and crossbeams reaching down into the waves. And then in the next layer of colour, leaping from the end of the pier, was an Icarus-type figure — his wings splayed behind him like an angel, caught in that split second of uncertainty before he discovers whether he will sink or soar.
So pleased that you are to continue with this blog. It is fascinating and gives me a taste of what I miss about living in London since transplanting myself Cornwall. I never hit the ‘close’ button without being left with something to ponder. Thank you, dear Father.
Hi Fr Stephen,
Please DO continue the blog. From the point I first read it, I have found the artcles thoroughly interesting and some have provoked me into further reading about the topics covered. All the best for the next 6 months.
Dear Father Stephen,
I’m glad you’ll continue blogging, regardless of self-doubts and statistics.
I’ve experienced the same.
Yet, we never know; if through our blogging one solitary person gets to experience the love of Christ – then it’s all been worth it.
God bless you.
Happy 6 months anniversary! Am so glad you’re going to keep on with the blog, it is always a good read – thought-provoking and helpful.
I shall keep reading, Fr!
But we all want to know are you continuing? I very mauch hope you say “Yes”
I’ve much enjoyed the eclectic mix of things. Thank you! And one post even set me on the path of organisational overhaul (presently stalled – but hopeful to resume and complete by Easter)!
Your blog is very interesting and worthwhile. It is a necessary antidote to the all too certain, cosy and fundamentalist emphases of most other Blogs written by Roman Catholic priests. It is very good news that you are continuing.
I wonder if you could say more about Cormac McCarthy’s trilogy, which you mentioned some time ago? I read the second of the trilogy after your reference to his work and was puzzled by your interest. The book certainly caused me to think about its meanings, which are not immediately obvious.
It’s a while ago now since I read the second book; I’m not sure about it’s ‘meanings’, but I remember the power of the writing, and the rawness of the humanity – body and soul laid bare, and some taught adventure scenes. I think the first book was my favourite; but for me it’s only right at the end of the trilogy, in an unexpected coda, that a completely different perspective on the whole work came about – that was like a revelation, that illuminated something about time and memory and the human soul that has stayed with me ever since, and actually changed the way I look at others. I can’t say any more without ruining it…
Good news indeed Father. Your blog is full of insight and always keenly welcome. Not sure what stats worried you, but remember the saying about ‘lies, damned lies and statistics’! Each ‘hit’ in my household means 3 people have read it.
Thank you for all the effort you put in.
Keep writing! Although my comments are sparse, I always read your entries and they are thought provoking and have opened up new vistas of thought for me and encouraged my reflective ideas about religion and society. Thank you. See you soon, God bless, Lizzie
Thank you so much for writing. I happened upon your writing in a time of inward searching, and appreciate the time you have taken to reach out to others. Thank you very much.
I’m glad the blog has been helpful.
Llandudno Pier…
I found your entry interesting thus I’ve added a Trackback to it on my weblog :)…
Dear Stephen,
I have read an entry from a good friend of mine, Simon Holdaway, to you, dated at a particularly important time: in it, he is searching for an affirmation of faith.
I do want to know your thoughts, since Simon and I have talked about religion and espeicallly catholicism: we both need help. If you have not heard from him for some time, please would you send him some sort of message of faith?
I beileive he may be in great need of it.
I too, but in less immediate need.
Thank you.
Susan