17 March 2010

Éire go Brách

Ireland Forever!
There's something special about Ireland. What is it about this island just off the northwest coast of Europe that makes so many hearts sing, so many souls dance?

It could be the whiskey; it has certainly been "inspiration" for generations.


Or is it the beauty of the island itself?

The richness of Ireland's history?

(Dunguaire Irish Castle)

It could be the Irish people themselves that fascinate us, with their reputation for a quick temper and a quicker laugh. It makes them fierce enemies, and passionate artists.

"I am a drinker with a writing problem."- Brendan Behan

Ireland sits at the very top of my "someday I'll visit there" list. I'm more than a bit envious of my baby sister; she's in the middle of her second trip there now. Lucky for me she'll have many fabulous stories (and hopefully pictures) to share when she gets home.

One day a year, on St. Patrick's Day, most of the world finds a reason to be Irish. Maybe it's an excuse to go out drinking (please, as a former bartender, I beg you to avoid the green beer). Maybe an excuse to get kissed? And who really needs an excuse for that.


As much as anything, I love that the Irish have a saying for everything. One of my favorites -

"A toast to your coffin. May it be made of 100 year old oak. And may we plant the tree together, tomorrow."

Whether you love the country for its beer, its beauty, its art, or its history, Happy St. Patrick's Day to you! I hope you are wearing a bit of the green today, even if only in your heart.



-Ember
www.embercase.com

3 comments:

Carolan Ivey said...

[["I am a drinker with a writing problem."- Brendan Behan]]

I resemble that remark! :)

Having been lucky enough to visit Ireland once, I am dying to go back someday!

Jean Marie Ward said...

I love that toast. I really do. :-)

Deborah said...

I certainly drowned the shamrock on St Patrick's day and had a wonderful time doing it!