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Re: Bro Denis


Posted by Reg on March 30, 2011 at 19:13:23:

In Reply to: Re: Bro Denis posted by Mick on March 28, 2011 at 17:58:00:

Mick, you wrote: "...overblown criticism of former teachers, especially clerics, balance is lackingÉ"
I don't quite follow your point about clerics, but as regards balance, the responses so far to my posting about Brother Denis - particularly the comments from Spiceloft and Alan, speak for themselves. I would regard both as balanced.
What a shocking and shameful legacy Denis leaves behind him in Castlebar, and, I suspect, in the other towns where he taught.
In his classroom I recall an atmosphere that was comparable to being in the vicinity of a ticking time bomb. You never knew when his bad temper would flare up suddenly and result in violence.
And, yes of course, I recall also periods of calm and good humor in his classroom.
I remember that he could be a great story-teller. There were times when his anecdotes would enthrall us, and he would often respond to our innocent questions in a kind and gentle way.
You had to be wary always however, because from one second to the next, and for no apparent reason, his mood could - and usually did - turn dark, and an atmosphere of fear and foreboding would return.
As an adult now looking back to those days in his classroom, it's clear to me that Denis was deeply troubled and probably also a very unhappy, frustrated individual.
He should never have been allowed to be alone near innocent children. His behavior would not be tolerated in Ireland today, thankfully.
I'd still love to know more about his background and what exactly it was that made him that way.
Finally, as regards the unkind remark you directed at Oliver Killeen: you are entitled to your opinion, but itŐs still only your opinion, so please donŐt assume that you are speaking for us all, ok?

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