It’s that time of year when strings of paper shamrocks line store front windows, the color green dyes everything from beer to bagels, and girls pull out their “Kiss Me, I’m Irish” tank tops.  On March 17th people all over the United States set out for a day of drinking and feasting to celebrate their inner Irish American.  Once properly dressed, they set out in packs lining up at the most “Irish” pub around and ordering pints of Guinness and shots of Jameson.

Americans have long embraced the tradition of St. Patrick’s day, but it seems to have become a bit of a frat party instead of a day honoring the true Irish spirit.  The Irish are mirthful and jovial, emotional and devoted while being rebellious and poetic at the same time.  They have strong souls and light hearts with a mystery in their laugh and a twinkle in their eye.  Their stories become legends passed through Irish generations, complete with a bit of whiskey raised to quick wit and sealed with a toast.

In celebration of Saint Patrick’s Day I raise a glass of Tullamore Dew to three extraordinary Irish women who embody the spirit of what being Irish is all about. 

Grace O’Malley

To her knowledge and her fight

And the respect from her men

As they captured the night

Pirate queen she had been

 

Raise a glass to the rebel

And her love for the sea

A song on her life shall prevail

As we share this whiskey!

 

Sister Sarah Clarke

Here’s to the pressure she faced

And the inmates embraced

As her life she invested

Freeing the wrongly arrested

 

Known for loving the sinner

But for hating the sin

Glasses up to a winner

Drink to her and her kin!

 

Catherine Hayes

Her life beginning in rags

Soon turned in to treasures

Singing songs while she worked

Made her presence a pleasure

 

A born opera star

Claimed the first of her kind

With a glass in your hand

Cheers to her for all time!

 

Cheers to a Happy Saint Patrick’s Day!