Erin Go Braugh!
Having researched my paternal and maternal genealogy, the conclusive evidence is basically, ‘I am Irish’. And, there is a part of my heart and soul which speaks to Ireland.
As I think of this island my thoughts are of a landscape rich with fields of green to sandy beaches and rugged coastlines with craggy cliffs; a climate of winds yet gentle rains; shamrocks and the land of the Leprechaun; a proper pint of Guinness and Irish pubs; corned beef and cabbage and Irish stew; the literature of Jonathan Swift, William Butler Yeats, James Joyce; Oscar Wilde and George Bernard Shaw; Gaelic song and dance and the fiddle; and who does not love Van Morrison(?); a country and its spirited people steeped in beauty and tradition and culture.
There are many Irish songs and poems which always seem to be offered in the spirit of love, fun, and a wish for well being. So just to "whet" your appetite, here are a few we enjoy:
Makes me chuckle:
Drinking is the only way to find out whether or not your neck leaks!
Perhaps one of the most familiar old Irish Blessings:
May the roads rise up to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
And the rain fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand
... another blessing:
May love and laughter light your days,
and warm your heart and home.
May good and faithful friends be yours,
wherever you may roam.
May peace and plenty bless your world
with joy that long endures.
May all life's passing seasons
bring the best to you and yours!
... and this beautiful Old Irish Wish
May the raindrops fall lightly on your brow
May the soft winds freshen your spirit
May the sunshine brighten your heart
May the burdens of the day rest lightly upon you
And may God enfold you in the mantle of His love.
To a blog friend "Rocky', who is Irish, and to you and yours, we wish you a happy St. Patty's Day!
