Why take a day to recognize a Saint?
Whether you’re Irish or Irish at heart, St. Patrick’s Day is a day of green – if for no other reason than the desire not to get pinched!
I grew-up in Dublin, Georgia, so the arrival of the 17th is quite significant. In Dublin we have festivals, parades, beauty pageants (of which my sister, Renie, holds the title of “Miss St. Patrick’s 1979), and lots of food – most of which is green. Our football team is the Fighting Irish, and yes, I was a cheerleader. “Go Green, Go Gold, Go Team, Fight! Fight!” It was our mantra.
St. Patrick’s real name was Maewyn Succat. At 16, he was captured by Celtic raiders and spent several years as a slave in Ireland. He escaped to Britain but then later returned to Ireland to preach Christianity to the Irish people. The shamrock, he used to teach the significance of the Trinity.
I wish for you a Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
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.
-An Irish Blessing
