Chasing a dream, but I’m tired
If we never make it, at least we can say we died trying
(Dermot Kennedy, Refuge)

Don Quixote held on to his dreams and his ideals – even though most of the world saw them as unreal, unrealistic, fictional, even foolish. His statue together with that of his friend Sancho Panza on San Sebastián’s promenade reminded me of his story. As it was Easter, I also had to think of that other man who did what he thought was the right thing, even though it got him into deep trouble.

Back in Dublin, Dermot Kennedy’s new album The Weight of the Woods, hit No.1 on the Irish and UK album charts at the beginning of the month. Refuge is a song on that album that struck a chord.

I know the dark shows up more than we’d like
Carve it in stone, so the story survives
Try to stand tall, try to get you to smile
Fight off what’s sensible, say I’m invincible
It’s all a lie

Trust these words, my heart is true
Love, let me be your refuge

Darling, I’m shaking tonight
Chasing a dream, but I’m tired
If we never make it, at least we can say we died trying

Looking back to our trip to Spain’s northwest coast, Pádraig was not shaking, he was not tired, and he did more than just trying. He enjoyed the journey, the sea, and the incredibly creative sessions with Laura and Marcos.

When our friends in Élize in Torrelavega told me on the last day of this year’s visit that they would walk with Pádraig, I thought “ok, standing up and taking a few steps in the therapy room – that sounds like a good idea and something that might work”.

Pádraig always likes a challenge and our friends are so incredibly professional and creative that there was no doubt in my mind that they would manage, and that Pádraig was safe.

I had no idea that they would walk down the whole corridor with him.

It wasn’t perfect and there is, obviously, much room for improvement – but the sensation of being able to stand and move his feet and legs in such a purposeful way was sensational for Pádraig, he said.

As for myself. I sometimes do feel tired. Even desperate.

Most likely mirroring the way Don Quijote and his friend; the man in the middle east; Dermot Kennedy; or anybody else with a strong believe or love must feel like at times.

And that is ok.

As long as we don’t stop trying.

Whether we’ll ever make it or not.

Love, let me be your refuge.