MySingleFriend

Catherine said...

Patrick is a complete one-off. He has been around the world countless times and mixes in all sorts of circles - high flying business people, travellers, people with more ordinary lives than his own but still important and interesting to him. He has a self-deprecating humour that is very appealing and enjoys a funny story, often at his own expense, about some adventure or mishap.

He is well read, thinks a lot and has a huge untapped potential to give time and energy to someone out there, to challenge the status quo and explore an idea or place. He is VERY kind, remembering little details and bringing something quirky but poignant if you haven't met up for a while. He is extremely loyal and generous - we have been friends since 1987 at school so go back a long way through many ups and downs.

He has a long memory for events and places which makes you feel that things are important to him. He is a very organised, clean and tidy person but always copes well when I have been late, messy or forgotten something important - I think he almost enjoys opposites. Patrick is very patient with children - he seems to get into their little heads and knows what they like. My kids call him ' clever Paddy' as he brings them funny and interesting presents from South Africa.

I met an elderly man who Patrick helps out in Cape Town - he told me the sheer extent of Patrick's gentleness and kindness to him, in a way that is hidden from other people. He doesn't parade his best attributes for all to see but quietly does his bit for those less well off out there. I am proud to be his friend, always cherish his visits and always feel he leaves too soon to go back home.

He is funny, quirky, shy to start off with until he relaxes. It takes a long time to get to know him - but it is worth the wait.