What Makes Being Irish So Special?

As an Irish-American, my connection to Ireland is a personal journey filled with moments of pride and discovery. While my roots run deep, it's these specific experiences that have shaped my sense of Irish identity.

Discovering My Irish Heritage

Sources of pride for me have been the moments of uncovering my deep ties to Ireland. My greatest discovery came in the early 1990s when I spoke to Mr. Josie Farrell, a retired mason from Stonepark in Longford, Ireland. Mr. Farrell was the nephew of my great-great maternal grandmother. This conversation brought a connection to my heritage in a way that words cannot fully describe. Since then, I've found even more pride in my heritage through my father's side, which is more distinctly Irish than my mother's. This discovery was rooted in a cousin's father who knew more about the Wright family history than my father did. These Moments of connection have been a defining part of my Irish identity.

Feeling Irish Pride

One of the earliest moments of overwhelming pride in my Irish identity was during the performance of Riverdance on television. I remember watching it during the_INTERVAL_ of the Eurovision Song Contest, just before turning 9 years old. The energy and artistry of the performance made me feel that our country and culture were truly awesome.

As an adult, my proudest moment in being Irish came with the historic day we voted for same-sex marriage through a referendum in 2015. This marked us as the first country in the world to do so. It was a long journey filled with intense pro and anti-marriage equality debate. Despite the formidable opposition from the 'No' side, the overwhelming support from the Irish people made the 'Yes' win possible. It was a defining moment for Irish society and our human rights.

Irish Pride: The St. Patrick's Day Parade

For those residing in New York City, the pride of being Irish is most palpable during the St. Patrick's Day parade every March 17th. The sheer number of participants and the vibrancy of the parade create an atmosphere of unity and joy, celebrating our cultural identity. It's an event that brings people together, regardless of their background, to honor the legacy of Saint Patrick and Irish heritage.

Conclusion

Being Irish is more than just a label; it's a sense of belonging, community, and shared history. Whether it's through personal connections, cultural experiences, or national pride, these moments have made being Irish a source of immense joy and fulfillment in my life. These experiences serve as a reminder of the richness and depth of Irish culture and identity.