Beyond the Post-it Notes

In this episode, Beyond the Post-it Notes: Finding the Anam Cara . . .

Last week, when I arrived at Dr. Don’s home to help him with computer issues and our biweekly lunch, I found myself reflecting on the wide range of topics we always discuss. We connect as if we’ve been friends for years, even though he’s 92 and I’m 68. It’s funny—during our conversations, age seems to disappear.

As we reviewed his list of computer questions on his Post-it notes, he surprised me by handing me a book. "Here, I want you to have this book," he said, his expression resembling that of someone offering something precious or secret.

Later that day, I found myself engrossed in its pages. The book is "Anam Cara" by John O'Donohue. For weeks, I had noticed it on his desk and felt curious, yet I had no idea what I would discover inside.

Right from the very first chapter, "The Mystery of Friendship," this book beautifully captures a feeling I experienced in that moment with Dr. Don—a profound connection that seems to transcend both logic and time. O'Donohue introduces the lovely old Gaelic term "Anam Cara," which means "soul friend."

O'Donohue discusses a type of friendship that transcends everyday pleasantries and shared activities. It is a bond where you can truly be seen, allowing the masks we often wear in the world to fall away. It involves recognizing the light and the landscape of another person's soul and permitting them to reveal theirs.

Reading this, I thought, “This clearly describes many of my closest friends.” There’s a comfort, openness, and willingness to share thoughts and feelings that feels ancient and easy. This mystery O'Donohue describes—how two souls can recognize each other and connect on a level that transcends the usual boundaries.

The book suggests that finding an anam cara is like finding a spiritual companion who awakens your life and helps you see the "wild possibilities" within yourself.

It got me thinking: “Do we truly appreciate the depth of our connections?” Are we brave enough to let ourselves be seen, and to truly see others? What magical ingredient makes one connection feel so much more profound than others?

Anam Cara delves so much deeper into these ideas, exploring how this soul-level connection impacts friendship and how we relate to ourselves, love, and the world around us. Just thinking about it reminds me of the incredible, sometimes unexpected, gifts life (and generous friends!) can offer.

This idea of a soul friend, an anam cara, feels like a gentle invitation to examine our relationships with new eyes and cherish those rare and beautiful bonds where our souls feel at home.

If this sparks something in you, Anam Cara may be a book calling to you, too!

I'm Patrick Ball. Stay curious and ask questions. See you in the next episode.

Comments

Anonymous said…

That's Patrick.. Dr Don is truly a gift to humanity.. I am so glad you two have forged this deep bond

April 26, 2025 at 8:07 AM

Don Hanley said…

A wonderful and invitational book 'report', Patrick. And I very much appreciate the sentiments and connection.

April 26, 2025 at 3:35 PM

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