George Hook's blog

I am indulging myself slightly this week; I have always been fascinated by the link between sociology and psychology and one particular problem has been running around my head for the last few days.

I also genuinely believe that it is important to revisit some of our moral compasses from time to time and examine why it is that we do certain things. To borrow an old philosophy; it is only through constant re-evaluation that the human mind will possess the capability for self improvement. If we understand our reasons for certain instinctive actions, we might learn more about our own sense of morality. Thus, our appreciation and understanding of each other must also grow over time.

One of the great misnomers in life’s etiquette and social handbook is that first impressions should last. It’s a common assumption that we all seem a little too comfortable with but I’m not sure this is a healthy way of approaching human interaction.

Good Friday, 2012. I have just played eighteen holes of golf with three friends on an unnamed Leinster course. We retreat to the bar in the hope of getting a coffee and a sandwich. I arrive into the clubhouse to find the front door of the members bar locked. After a quick conversation with the barman my three pals and I are escorted around the back of the building, through the staff entrance and into the main lounge. A glance around the room reveals approximately thirty people sitting on chairs and high stools, drinks in hand, watching the US Masters on a large television screen overhead. I am fascinated. “Might there be the chance of a pint?” I ask our barman, almost excitedly. “Of course sir” he replies, “have a seat and I will bring them to your table.” I exchange smiling glances with my fellow golfers and we sit down to await the arrival of our guilty pleasures.

I remember listening to an old friend of mine describe his time spent in a boxing ring. Rugby was always my passion but this man lived for stepping into the squared circle and going toe to toe with opponents all around the country. He was tough, he was strong and he was athletic; an ideal physical specimen to trade blows in competition. Such were the physical demands of his chosen sport that there was no room for alcohol in his life. I was never much of a drinker either and we would often run together as part of our training routines. I marvelled at his skill and his bravery during bouts. In particular, I remember one conversation between us after I had gone to see him fight in a tournament in Limerick. We were driving home to Cork, he had just beaten a man twice his size over five gruelling rounds and his face looked like something out of a Stephen King horror film. I asked him how he did it; how did he stomach all that pain in the name of sport?

Jim Stynes passed away last weekend. Many of you reading might not be familiar with that name, which is a great pity because to have seen him in action or to have heard him speak was to be in the presence of one of Ireland's greatest ever ambassadors. Jim represented the possibility of making fairytales comes true and his life story is as remarkable as it is inspiring. Particularly today, in 2012, when many young Irish are leaving these shores to find work and a life in Australia, Jim’s story proves that the possibilities there are endless. His is a story full of joy, hard work and determination but tinged with tragedy and sorrow. The whole of Ireland, not just Melbourne and Australia, should be celebrating his life and his achievements.

Dear George,

Just a quick note to say we arrived in Vancouver last week safe and sound.  We’ve managed to settle in straight away; the people seem very friendly, the weather is pretty mild for this time of year and we’ve already managed to line up an apartment in the city centre and three job interviews each! All going well Paul and I should be earning a salary by this time next month. Fingers crossed! It’s strange to be away from Ireland with no return date in mind but whenever I’m feeling homesick I just remember the frustration and emptiness we felt before we left. Thanks for everything, will keep you posted on how we get on and love to all at home.