St. Patrick's Day (March 17th) suddenly turns everyone "a wee bit" Irish--at least for the day! We get decked out in our finest green attire & sometimes even utter an Irish saying or two. "The luck of the Irish" is one such phrase commonly heard this time of year. Beyond the childhood fantasies of searching for 4-leaf clovers, leprechauns, & pots of gold at the end of a rainbow, exists some Irish traditions which hold romantic "lure" for adults, as well.
Millions venture to kiss The Blarney Stone each year, since it's believed to result in "persuasive eloquence"(also the definition of blarney). This fated stone is located within a wall of the Blarney Castle Tower. Built in 1446, it is, of course located in the Irish village of Blarney. In tracing the origins of this legend, one story tells of an old woman who cast a spell upon the stone. She did so to honor a King who saved her from drowning. The King supposedly was able to speak "kindly & convincingly" after placing his lips to the Blarney Stone.
Another romantically-based symbol connected to Irish heritage, is the Claddagh Ring. Representing love, friendship & loyalty, this distinctive ring is designed with two hands joined by a crown-topped heart. The Claddagh is a member of a group of Irish faith rings. These designs have been worn by royalty such as Queen Victoria, Prince Rainier & Princess Grace of Monaco. Many couples are now using the Claddagh as wedding bands. Variations of this classic romantic design can be viewed & ordered on-line. How the ring is placed on the finger represents romantic "status". Worn on the right hand with crown in, means the heart is still open; the crown turned out tells of possible love. Worn on the left hand with crown out proclaims a fully occupied heart.
The origins are as vague for the Claddagh as for the Blarney Stone. One version tells of a woman who, after her wealthy husband died, used the inherited fortune for charity. One day, in return for her good will, an eagle dropped a Claddagh ring into her hands.
*wishing love, good fortune, & a happy St. Patrick's Day to all "Wild Irish Rose's"!!
Top O' the Morn'n Sites:
Go To Page: 1 2
