The singer songwriter and St Vincent de Paul ambassador picks five of his favourite things
Favourite book
I have to be honest and say I do not read as much for pleasure as I used to. I have been studying theology for the past five years, and most of my reading revolves around that subject, which is full of richness. During the past years, I have been continually drawn to the writings of the late John O’Donoghue; he was an Irish poet, author, priest, and philosopher. He was a native Irish speaker and, as an author, is best known for popularising Celtic spirituality. He has one book called Anam Cara which translates to ‘Soul Friend’, and I often lift it to glean some wisdom and inspiration. Anam Cara explores many themes relevant to life’s journey, be it love, loss, nature, creativity and friendship, and John O’Donoghue’s expressive and poetic language almost sing from the pages. I have to say this for me is my current favourite and I feel like it will be a life companion.
Favourite song
This is always difficult for me to answer as I fall in love with music and songs all the time so I have to give you two. I love Both Sides Now by the incredible Joni Mitchell. Joni masterfully uses clouds, love, and life as metaphors to explore some of the themes of life. Like any musical masterpiece, you can immerse yourself in the melody and lyrics and find yourself floating along. This song, for me, often draws a tear as reflections of my life come to mind; I think that’s what makes a powerful song, when you find yourself right there in the middle of it. I particularly love her orchestral version.
Phil Coulter
If I could mention another song that is very close to me, Phil Coulter’s, The Old Man. My wonderful daddy, Paddy, asked me to learn this song when I was young; it reminded him of his father, and I could see how it touched him. I won the Tyrone County Scor singing this song, and I remember to this day my parent’s pride; little did I think that a few years later, I’d be collaborating with the composer Phil and recording the song with him for an album. Phil Coulter is now a dear friend of mine. My father sadly passed away just over a year ago. I sing it now with another sense of connection to my daddy: ‘I miss him, but I love him, The Old Man.’
Favourite film
The Green Mile is my favourite film and has been since I first saw it when it was released back in 1999. The story is set in the 1930s and follows Tom Hank’s character, Paul Edgecomb, a death row corrections officer. We see how his life is changed when John Coffey, a giant African-American man wrongfully convicted of murdering two young white girls, arrives on death row. Despite his imposing appearance, Coffey is gentle and possesses a miraculous healing ability. As the movie progresses, Edgecomb and his colleagues begin to question his guilt and the justice of his execution. The film explores themes of humanity, justice, and redemption and holds lots of moments to take the breath away.
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Favourite place
I’ve been to many places all over the world and seen some beautiful places, but give me a beach in Donegal above them all, I love Rossnowlagh, Rosapenna, Killybegs. There is something special about the beauty of Donegal, the scenery, the food, the music and the people, and I have the most cherished memories of times spent there. From holidays as a child with my family, memories of walking hand in hand with my wife Claire and our late Golden Labrador Molly, and more recently, we celebrated my mother’s birthday in Donegal. It is a piece of heaven.
Favourite food
Fortunately, or unfortunately, I love most food and enjoy cooking, which often challenges my waistline. As my late aunt and friend Kathleen often said, ‘Food, glorious food, I love it all.’
Malachi Cush
Malachi Cush has been appointed as the first ambassador of St Vincent de Paul in the Northern Region. To request help from SVP or to become a member, please visit www.svp.ie