Last night in Waterstones was a truly exhilarating experience and my sincere thanks to those who passed up on the Save a Hedgehog programme on TV to come. A particular word of thanks to Tommie Gorman of RTÉ, who gave of his time in the middle of busy schedule covering the election.
There were old friends – sorry, mature friends, people I knew only through my blogsite or Facebook, and people I had never met but was more than happy to encounter. Tommie Gorman in his talk spoke of how it was important to talk to those with a different political view on things, which is why I was particularly happy to see Raymond McCord and Glenn Patterson, both unionist contributors to the book, present at the launch. And there were even two clergymen in attendance, only one of whom I got to talk to; but the presence of both was appreciated.
There was one major glitch to the night: we ran out of books. If anyone wants to contact me with an address and payment, I’ll get a signed copy to them as soon as possible.
As so often happens after events like this, I wonder why more forums aren’t provided on a regular basis where people could come together and discuss political issues. I’m convinced that there’s a real hunger for debate and discussion of matters political which we too often leave to the politicians or the loudmouths, who assume they can do our thinking for us.
Finally, a joke I was told by one of the people in attendance last night.
The question of hunger in the world was under discussion and an American was consulted:”Excuse me, could you give us your opinion on this matter of hunger in today’s world?” The American looked puzzled: “What is the meaning of that word ‘hunger’?”
They consulted a Russian: “Excuse me, could you give us your opinion on this matter of hunger in today’s world?” The Russian looked puzzled: “What is the meaning of that word ‘ opinion’?”
Finally they located an Israeli: “Excuse me, could you give us your opinion on this matter of hunger in today’s world?” The Israeli looked puzzled: “What is the meaning of that phrase “Excuse me’?”
Finally, excuse me, but don’t forget what a perfect Christmas present Laying it on the Line: the Border and Brexit would make.
Some pics from the night….
Happily stuck between my two sisters Teresa and Bernie
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