Ha’penny Bridge, Dublin

For once there was no great time pressure this morning so I managed an early walk along the Liffey in glorious light before leaving for the airport  and home. 

Last night’s Burns Supper was a great but very emotional event , not least because of the imminence of the 31st of January and Brexit,  

Walking in the city this morning it seemed just insane that in a few days we will be leaving the political, social and cultural project that has brought so much healing to all the relationships of the countries of our continent.   

The more so because Scotland , the nearest cousin to Ireland, never voted for it and does not want it.

At the end of my “ Immortal Memory” I asked Ireland to keep a light on for Scotland as we work our way back into our common European home and got a hugely moving  response.  

For me going forward that light will be what is in this picture - a wonderful early morning warmth and illumination  that slanted across the river and the city and brought joy and hope.