How would you describe your temperament?
In my opinion, I have a very compliant and amenable personality. It requires an extensive strain to agitate this tranquil persona.
Could you tell us about the origin of your middle name, its meaning to you and any nicknames you have had?
My given names are Edward Noel Cunningham, where Noel is my middle name. Much to my despair, my time at the local school ordained me the shortened versions of my name, such as Ted or Ed, rather than its complete form, Edward. That’s when the drama enthusiast in me surfaced even in those early days. I requested my mother to have a word with Mr. Breslin, our headmaster at that time, to alter the student list in the school allowing me to be addressed as Noel henceforth.
Which region holds the most appeal in Ireland according to you?
The natives in my region used to make a customary pilgrimage to the summit of Slieve League. They would follow the pilgrim’s path, fasting since the clock struck twelve. At a degenerated, old church atop they’d gather to hear Mass, and later would take a downhill amble, probably arriving home during the mid-afternoon. This happens to be my favourite spot as every time I take this route, which is very often, I feel as if I can perceive the echoes of people chanting the holy rosary like they used to do in those days. It’s an exceedingly profound and spiritual place.
Could you define yourself using only three adjectives?
Compassionate, magnanimous, and irritable are the words.
When was the last time you experienced rage?
Authentically, I seldom get infuriated, I find it to be a necessity to keep my temper in check. I guess in this stage of my existence what truly provokes me is man’s cruel treatment of his equals. The sheer apathy towards dictators who perpetuate misery upon numerous innocent individuals, both men and women, and children, in places such as Gaza and Ukraine. This grim reality and our indifference towards it irks me.
Is there anything you have misplaced and would like to retrieve?
If I could have a day, just a day, to spend with my adored sister Marie who fate tragically stole from us in a car crash along with her dear husband. I’d undoubtedly be the most joyous man alive. Merely a span of 24 hours to express those unsaid words before she was so heartlessly taken away.
Could you share a powerful memory from your childhood with us?
My earliest morning routine involved awaking pre-dawn and catching the mail van to a certain spot. From there, my journey continued on foot to my uncle’s residence where I’d spend a few hours before casually ambling to school with my cousins. My mother made a deliberate decision to withdraw my late sibling Marie and myself from our local school to better integrate us into a Gaeltacht school.
How do you rank in the sequence of births in your family, and what impact has this had on you?
Being the middle child, I’ve often felt somewhat overlooked. I held the view that my elder siblings, my sister Marie and brother Jimmy – both of whom are sadly no longer with us – were acknowledged more than I was. There was a certain sense of neglect, although in retrospect, I appreciate it was possibly because our parents didn’t think it fitting for me to attend primary school attired in pink taffeta.
What are your expectations for the afterlife?
In spite of periods where I’ve tormented myself over the notion that homosexuality is evil and a sin, I am unwavering in my belief that my God is compassionate and forgiving. I anticipate that on meeting those gates, I will be lovingly accepted and escorted through to reunite with my dear family and friends. It will be a realm of profound peace and satisfaction, similar to strolling in a picturesque garden.
What was the happiest season in your life?
My experiences of true happiness have only emerged in recent years, following the grant of sobriety after an extensive struggle with alcohol dependence. Being a recovering alcoholic has brought me a level of contentment I hadn’t experienced in 55 years. I am enjoying the sobriety and the program, and am incredibly grateful for the chance to reclaim my life, something that was hanging by a thread.
Which actor would portray you in a movie about your life?
I think Colin Farrell would make a suitable choice. The progress in ageing technology is quite remarkable these days.
What’s your most significant professional/personal regret?
In the course of my alcohol recovery and for my own mental wellbeing, I resolved to stop dwelling on regrets as it is beyond my control to alter them. Whether these regrets arise from alcoholism, poor decisions, or the prejudice I faced due to my sexual orientation, they would have the capacity to overwhelm me. I chose instead to dismiss these regrets and refrain from contemplating them any further.
Are there any peculiar psychological traits you possess?
I realise I’ve become slightly eccentric when it comes to home matters, engaging in behaviours I once chided my mum for. This involves actions such as aligning the cushions, arranging my footwear systematically, and keeping to a specific dressing etiquette I’ve come to abide by.