Magheracross

This scene in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, is likely not far removed as it has been for centuries. Dunluce Castle, over on the next cliff ledge, has a history dating back to the 13th Century. As you may be able to tell, it’s undergoing some restoration.

The ruins of Dunluce have taken on the very character of the basalt and chalk cliffs where it abides… and its history lives on in this image.

In many ways, it reminds me of Evelyn McCullough, as she had taken on the charm and beauty around her that was her beloved Ireland. I saw that for myself one glorious morning over two years ago along this coast, a time I will never forget. She passed from this life on Saturday after a valiant bout with incurable cancer… even in the face of fear and certain death in her last two years, hers was still a life of fullness and selflessness… and beauty that surpasses the land that she loved. She will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew her... as always. God bless her family and friends.

Click here to see Ireland from Evelyn's eyes: www.flickr.com/photos/herringpond/

Sunrise comes pretty early in Northern Ireland this time of year… I was up just past 4 am to catch it on this side of the Magheracross Viewpoint, only about 15 minutes from our hotel in Portrush (pronounced as though two words, port rush). A little over two years ago, my friend Evelyn McCullough brought me here as a first stop among many along the coastal highway, which is replete with stunning scenery. I dedicated this particular morning by retracing that time in tribute to Evelyn, though by myself this time. Dear Evelyn is in hospice at the MacMillan Unit in Antrim, where she is in palliative care due to incurable cancer. We were proud and appreciative to meet with her a last time during this trip… she has been a great inspiration to all who have known her, for even in the face of death, she lived life in a selfless fullness that so few others do even without such troubles. This image would not have been possible without her. I’ll never forget her. Please pray for her and her family and friends.

If you look closely (click the image for detail), you can see the remains of Dunluce Castle just beyond that first cliff.