Irish roots

My great-grandparents came to the U.S. from County Mayo Ireland, and though as my mother would say our heritage is “Heinz 57”, I have always seemed most connected to my Irish side of the family.

Yes, the Irish are no strangers to alcohol, but we are so much more than that. From my perspective those of Irish heritage know not only how to party, but also how to laugh, with others, and at themselves. We have our superstitions and fears, but also meet life head-on and persevere in the face of adversity. We are an emotional bunch that can shed a tear at the drop of a hat, or respond to an unkindness with a steely resolve that can chill you to your core. And when we mourn, we mourn with all of our heart and feel that loss in the deepest crevices of our heart and soul.

My Irish family has the gift of gab, and the love of music and all things entertaining and creative. Myself, I love the written word and all the power and emotion that it can convey. Ancient Irish are often times protrayed as great warriors of their time (Braveheart), but I think the Irish as a whole choose to lean more towards family, friends and the cultural offerings of life, only becoming warriors out of necessity when all that they love and hold dear are in jeopardy.

I recently ran across a YouTube video that my sister-in-law sent to me many years ago, and I still tear up when I watch it. It’s called a Traditional Irish Blessing and I thought I would share it with you as I feel it truly captures the essence of the Irish mind, heart and soul. If there is someone in your life that you cherish, and especially if they’re Irish, I hope you will share this video with them. Life is not without heartache, but luckily it’s filled with plenty of joy to help you thru those heartaches, sometimes you just need to take a moment to look for it, and when you find that joy rejoice in the moment and savor it, and let it leave a footprint in your heart and mind so that you may reflect on that moment and relive that joyous moment time and time again.

It’s a grand time to be Irish it ’tis, and I thank God for the many blessings He has given me with my Irish heritage, the most beautiful one being my wife with her smiling Irish eyes and incredible smile. And Kate, this Irish Blessing is my wish for you, now and forever.

As always, thank you for reading and may the winds of life always be at your back.

Photo by Getty Images (image from County Mayo)

Author: commonmanthoughts57

Living a common life with my exceptionally uncommon wife, who was the girl next door, and is the love of my life. View all posts by commonmanthoughts57