St. Patrick’s Day serenade

“It was the day before St. Patrick’s Day, and I was feeling a bit blue and nostalgic, missing what a big deal it used to be in my Irish family when I was a little girl. We’d all gather together and have a huge feast and sing traditional Irish songs. But sadly without my grandparents and parents, their stories and joy, the tradition had slowly faded away. Now, my husband, my daughter and grandchildren hardly gave the holiday any attention.

“While going to a market downtown, I spotted a man on the corner playing an accordion. As I passed, he smiled and then suddenly began to play ‘Danny Boy,’ singing in a rich baritone voice just like my grandfather used to. I stopped in my tracks, mesmerized, and listened to the entire song. As I pulled out a couple of dollars to thank him, he shook his head and said with an Irish lilt, ‘My gift to you, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.’

“That kind gesture did more for me than words can ever say. It reminded me that no tradition is ever lost as long as you carry the memories in your heart.”