A few years ago, I had an appointment with a GP at the surgery where I was registered.  The computer screen was slightly angled, and this enabled me to see some of the remarks on my medical records.  Plainly visible was: “Thinks he is a Catholic priest”.

Later I visited an old friend.  We’ve known each other since we were 12 and at school together.  Laughing, I told him about the GP’s record saying that I think I am a Catholic priest.  Turning to me very seriously, and in a low, concerned tone of voice, he asked: “Tell me, Mike, how long have you been having these thoughts you are a Catholic priest?” Only the eyes betrayed a twinkle.

It reminds me of one of the sayings of St Anthony of Egypt (who thought he was a monk): “A time will come when the world will go mad.  And if they come across someone who is not mad, they will attack him saying: ‘You must be mad – you’re not like the rest of us!’”  

It’s enough to make you feel paranoid.

MICHAEL KIRKHAM