Thoughts on St Paddy’s…

St Paddy’s Day in Cork, at the parade, 2003

Spending 14 glorious months in Co Cork  and having the opportunity to attend a real Irish St Patrick’s Day Parade on Patrick Street in Cork City; my Irish Hubby and I always raise a glass to our Irish roots.

It turns out (after much family history research) both our families come from Co Cork, about 10 miles from each other ~ but we actually met in the middle of Africa!

My gorgeous Hubby and I celebrating in Oz. 2008.

Inevitably, I can’t help thinking of my dear old Dad who was so proud of his heritage who cannot have  his usual Guinness today ~ we lost him 31 years ago.

My Dear Old Dad on holiday in South Africa 1966.

Unconditional

That moment

when I realized

you weren’t asleep,

I couldn’t cry. 

 

I wanted to,

thought I should,

but I couldn’t shed tears

for all those years

when I was loved

unconditionally. 

 

When I knew

no matter what I did

or said, you would always

love me – be there for me.

 

Put a plaster on my hurts,

fix me up with kisses, give

words to make me feel better. 

 

I’ll never forget your strength.

 

How your arms encircled me,

the safeness of a oak tree,

dense, caring and complete. 

I need that care now! 

 

I need to feel safe again,

to sail into your harbour of care,

find you there, waiting

 

with open arms, accepting

all my faults, all my mistakes

and letting them go. 

 

You always helped me

move on to new adventures,

strengthened by your love.

 

Frances Macaulay Forde © 2013