Practicing a Leap Two Three
This could also be titled, Eire, Take 2. Once again I am back in this country for an extended bit of time with space to continue exploring all the magic that is Ireland. Once again I have brought with me three pairs of shoes to help me get from here to there. In them, I am metaphorically performing one leap two three to another as I amble throughout the country that has stolen my heart. For those that may not know, the leap two three is that dazzling dance step you see Irish dancers perform as they transport themselves like well postured gazelles across the stage. My own efforts are more aptly described as bumbling about — this time I have some ideas about where I am going since I am on a time clock of only a few weeks rather than the months of my original exploration. This time, I have the privilege of returning to places already familiar rather than stepping into the unknown. This time, I am approaching this adventure with anticipation rather than the fear that nearly paralyzed me on the first go.
Recently, a helpful hotel desk clerk asked me what it was about Ireland that I liked so much. “It certainly can’t be the weather”, he quipped. Sure, the weather is desperate; actually though I think the constant drizzle with occasional sunshine IS part of the attraction. Partially because in Ohio, where I come from, we have almost if not more rainfall as our location turns more and more into a temperate rain forest. And we are famous for grey skies with quick changes of weather. Because our fluctuation of temperatures is more extreme, we do not enjoy the year round tinge of green that makes Eire such a lush place. Nor do we encounter rainbows on an almost daily basis. Somewhere Over the Rainbow is a favorite tune my mother used to sing to me at night — in turn I have passed that melody on to my own two daughters. I am certain on some subconscious level I am programmed to believe that a place teaming with rainbows is absolutely magical by definition. No rain? No rainbows. I think it is a worthwhile trade in order to have both.
The mix of ancient history with that of the past several centuries is also fascinating to me. The remnants of castles, homesteads, sacred spaces, and old architecture create the background by which to learn of Ireland’s past. It is an incredibly rich albeit bittersweet tapestry of stories of lives lived and lost in the constant quest to be country left to itself to run. From religion to politics, this island seemed to draw the attention of factions bent on making it their own. I realize that is more than an understatement. Saving a more scholarly discussion for others more knowledgeable, I shall just say that In the states, we are taught a very narrow version of history about the potato famine.
On the other hand, Irish mythology and folklore transcends well to other continents. Leprechauns being the most notorious of the little people, have been outdone by contemporary marketing and international consumerism. Unless of course, that virtue of human greed for gold and penchant for alcoholic consumption is the result of their efforts - something to contemplate. Seal maidens, on the other hand, are at the other end of the spectrum. I am unsure how many Americans even know they exist. I’m convinced all the giants are asleep in Connemara as every collection of hills looks like someone quite large is a’snooze. Whilst I recommend staying away from fairy rings, the fairy houses found in Belleek Woods are quite intentional. This is me proudly declaring that I am a believer who is memorized by it all.
More enchanting than landscapes dotted with sheep, architectural ruins, and mystic lore at every turn, are the people themselves. Again, it all feels familiar. Though watered down, I come from Appalachian stock which is a strange mix of Irish, Scottish, Welsh, and English with a dose of German thrown in to make us a hardy and head strong brand of people. Family, kinship and hospitality are in my nature. The “gift of the gab” is an inherited trait. As someone with a penchant for poetry, music, art, dance, and theatre, it is a delight to be here in Ireland where those skills are cherished and valued. Not so much back in the states.
The people in the here and now of Ireland remind me of the people I grew up around “back in the day.” The people I’ve met here readily take in a stranger, run to help someone experiencing misfortune, and philosophically turn most everything into a good laugh. I’m told that during the pandemic, 98% of the Irish willingly donned a face mask, if not for their own protection but to protect others. Community comes first. Differences of opinion can be willingly left at that. We’ve lost those ideals in large quantities back in the states; mores the pity.
All of which is to say —I like it here. I feel at home here. For the next few weeks I have the unique opportunity to be leaping, loving and learning about this country, documenting its effect on my interior landscapes. Let the journey continue — you are most cordially welcome to join in on the fun.
