Congressman, I had the wonderful privilege to visit Ireland in August, 2007. Though we stayed in the beautiful Dublin, we took the train on a day trip to Belfast. Our guide joked that as recently as two years before our trip, taking a day trip to Belfast was akin to taking a day trip to Baghdad! It was a trip I’ve always wanted to make as my ancestors hail from that area, and from Londonderry.
To say that the trip was eye opening would be an understatement. Though things had been quiet for a couple of years, there was still the wall that closed at 6 pm every evening. There was, also, still rubble where some buildings had been bombed. Just outside of the train station is the Europa Hotel, the most bombed structure in Europe.
I’m sorry to hear that there has been violence recently. Things were peaceful when I was there, but there was an undercurrent that made me uncomfortable. If they could raise one generation without violence, I think peace could be sustained.
We had lunch at the Crown Bar. I was raised on cheese and pickle sandwiches, but had never seen them on any menu before. I ordered it, and it was delicious! Never did have enough ice, though. ;o)
Thank you for this piece. I very much enjoyed reading it.
seoul62, I’ll be wishing you and your late Da’ a very Happy St. Paddy’s Day!
May the road rise to meet you,
may the wind always be at your back,
may the sun shine warm upon your face,
the rains fall soft upon your fields and,
until we meet again,
may God hold you in the palm of His hand.
Irish Blessing
“May the road rise to meet you,
may the wind always be at your back,
may the sun shine warm upon your face,
the rains fall soft upon your fields and,
until we meet again,
may God hold you in the palm of His hand.”
That was my mother’s favorite and part of her eulogy. It still hangs today on my wall on a ceramic plaque.
Thanks for posting it,Dixie.
Thank you very much for your kind post./Just Asking - seoul62.......