St. Patrick's Day is One of My Favorite Days

Grandma was born in the United States, but her parents came from Ireland. She was a tiny fiery woman who was always obeyed no matter what. Grandma Emma's youngest daughter was born on March 17^th. The only thing a good Irish woman could do was to name a child born on this day either Patricia, if a girl, or Patrick, if a boy.

Grandma had thirteen children and was a very devout Catholic. My mother is the oldest of her daughters and loved her youngest sister very much. When I was born my Mother decided to name me after her youngest sister and so, in a roundabout way, I am named after St. Patrick.

Grandma Emma lived with us for most of my pre teenage years. I wrote a story about her called, Grandma Emma and the "Screaming Skull". Grandma lived until she was 94 years old and many of her grandchildren had the pleasure of Grandma Emma's guidance in their lives. Grandma taught us that there is no such word as can't, a strong belief in faith, and to think for ourselves.

St. Patrick is recognized as an Irish saint because he died in Ireland and did so much to bring the Catholic religion to that country. He was actually born in Scotland. As a child he was captured in a raid and taken to Ireland. Ireland was a pagan country during the time of St. Patrick's captivity. Eventually St. Patrick was able to escape from Ireland and returned to his family. St. Patrick studied for the priesthood and was eventually appointed as Bishop to Ireland. He was instrumental in converting thousands to the Catholic faith and in building churches throughout Ireland. He died on March 17, 461.

The Shamrock is a symbol that is associated with St. Patrick. St. Patrick used this symbol to explain the trinity. Of course we all know that if you find a four leaf clover it will bring you good luck. Grandma would send us outside to search for four leaf clovers. We had a lot of clover in our yard so this would keep us busy for a long time.

So, in my family, St. Patrick has a lot of meaning for us. I was always proud of my Irish heritage. Grandma Emma always told us that she wanted to go to Ireland to kiss the Blarney Stone. She never did get the opportunity to do that. Maybe someday I'll get to go do that for her.

Source:

Personal experience

http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=89

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2652255/grandma_emma_and_the_screaming_skull.html?cat=44