A Little Green in My Heart

 Why I Love St. Patrick’s Day

   

Every year when March rolls around and the world turns shades of vibrant green, I feel a quiet little thrill. St. Patrick’s Day has always held a special charm for me—not just because of the cheerful celebrations, but because somewhere back in the strong branches of my family tree are a few Irish ancestors. In fact, according to family history, that ancestry even traces back to Irish royals. I find that exciting! Knowing my ancestry gives the holiday a personal sparkle. It feels less like observing a tradition and more like greeting old family who pop in once a year wearing green attire and mischievous grins.

There is something wonderfully lighthearted about St. Patrick’s Day. Unlike some holidays that come wrapped in pressure and expectations, this one is content to simply be a joyful day. People wear green to avoid playful pinches, decorate with clovers, and tell stories of leprechauns guarding pots of gold. Even if you are not Irish, it is fun to get swept up in the festive spirit. A holiday built around luck, laughter, and a little bit of folklore is a holiday I happily support.

Of course, what I love most about St. Patrick’s Day is the sense of heritage it brings to me. When I think about my Irish ancestors, I imagine strong people with resilient spirits who lived long before my time. They carried their stories, their humor, and their traditions through generations until, somehow, those threads of history found their way into my own life. This holiday is a small moment to reflect on my heritage and appreciate the paths that eventually led to my present circumstances.

And honestly, any holiday that encourages people to smile a little more, share a meal, and maybe indulge in something sweet or festive is worth celebrating. So, whether you are Irish by citizenship, Irish by ancestry, or simply Irish for the day, I hope you find a bit of luck, a lot of laughter, and perhaps even a tiny bit of gold at the end of a rainbow.

Have a lucky and joyful St. Patrick’s Day!

 

ON PATTY'S DAY, YOU DO 

You don’t believe in leprechauns.
A myth you say they be.
You don’t believe in pots-o-gold,
or four-leaf-clover tea.

You don’t believe the rainbow’s end
alights on treasured finds.
They are illusions meant for fools
you say ‘ave lost their minds.

You don’t believe in whispering
your wishes to the wind,
where on St. Patrick’s holiday
they blow t’wards Ireland.

You don’t believe in magic spells
or longings coming true.
Yet, head-to-toe you dress in green
on Patty’s Day, you do.

                    ― Richelle E. Goodrich, Being Bold: Quotes, Poetry, & Motivations for Every Day of the Year