An Irish Blessing

I think of my Irish-born grandmother often. She and her sister came to America as teenagers in the 1920s, leaving behind two parents and a younger sister in County Roscommon, Ireland.

Despite living in America for most of her 77 years, Angela never lost her Irish accent. And despite never once returning to Ireland-- she often told stories of growing up there, and in many ways remained Irish to the core.

My wife and I have visited Ireland twice-- and on both occassions we reconnected with family members that have been generous and warm with their welcomes.

Both of my grandmother's sisters-- Kathleen, who traveled to America with her as a teenager, and Florence, who remained in Ireland-- passed away a few years ago. 

I think of them all, often. Especially on St. Patrick's Day.

(Reprinted from a previous woganonsports blog)