Michael, 67, lives in Southport, but is originally from Sunderland. He has 3 adult children and has 3 grandchildren. In 2013 he qualified as a Person-Centred Therapist, specialising in Inner Child and Mediation work, having previously worked in IT management for over 30 years. He is a companion in a neo-monastic community and is drawn to contemplative mysticism. In his spare time, he writes poems, songs and short stories, plays guitar, supports Sunderland football club and is shortly to return to full time living on a narrowboat. He keeps grounded playing with his young grandchildren and through daily contemplation.