Thomas Cahill's book "How the Irish Saved Civilization" walks through the downfall of the Roman Empire and how in the chaos the world almost lost all of the classic literature, poetry, theology, philosophy and that once Rome fell, there were no more great buildings or master art. When chaos ensures, creativity dies.

Enter Ireland. Unconquered by Rome and a place where monks copied Scripture, poetry, theology, all of the Greek and Latin classics and thus preserved it for a later time.

In chaos, it is important that we find ways to create joy and beauty. Writing, singing, playing an instrument, reading, walking in nature are all ways in which we can fight the chaos.

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St Brigid of Kildare was one of the historical people I encountered on my pilgrimage to Ireland. She was a bold figure and her historic life was mixed with the folklore. She established a monastery in Kildare where nuns and monks worked, lived and prayed side by side. Her leadership was recognized and she was made a Bishop - which the church later denied. I wondered what she might have to say to us in this time. I think she would respond that the need for peace must come from within before it can be shared with others.

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I have just returned from a Celtic Spirituality Pilgrimage in Ireland. We encountered many "Thin places" and learned much along the way. Join me in pondering the question of "How will you live?" A question asked by our guide while at the monastic site in Glendalough. A safe space for those needing refuge and a place that many have been buried. Some of the tombstones are now nameless, eroded by time and the elements. Pascal said "You will be dead a long time, so how will you live?" Join me in pondering this question.

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