A Glimpse into a Heart-Warming Community
A Glimpse into a Heart-Warming Community Four days across the pond w/Mom wasn’t exactly how I envisioned my past week playing out. Still, in a moment of grief for the sudden death of her brother Jim, accompanying my mother to her hometown of Blacklion in County Cavan, Ireland, was what I needed to do to give her comfort. Off we went to the land of green pastures and a culture I had not visited for nearly 32 years. Four days of ceremonious rituals to celebrate a man’s life I hardly remember, but this trip wasn’t about me; it was all for immediate family, or so I thought. If you ever want to be embraced by a society that defines community, traditions, and values, this is a destination you should pay attention to. From the moment we landed until our very quick stay ended, the outreach of love and support reinforced how compassion and the power of unity conquer all in times of grief. Where do I begin? This culture strives to hold on to what bonds humans: an environment where inhabitants appreciate that they have each other in times of need. The generosity, selflessness, and unconditional actions warmed me to the core, mostly because I witnessed first-hand what it meant to my mother and her immediate family who joined us. I will always cherish feeling welcomed, supported, and included. We all have experienced grief, and when these moments are ours to endure, a familiar face, a story, and a hug are the best remedies for healing. My experience this past week in a foreign place gave me a renewed perspective on humanity. I want to keep this feeling close at a time when I feel so much division wrestles with my beliefs of hope and humankind. At times, the ill will and negligence we witness in the world and around us negatively hampers our spirits. Getting into a habit of practicing more community-driven acts could very well raise us above indifference. “When you are in the presence of others that care, you are not alone.” Fr. Loughlain Carolan relayed that message in a beautiful eulogy to honor my late uncle. That phrase went straight to the center of my heart, and in those several words, I surmised the thoughts I was searching for to define all I had witnessed in those three days. Tradition and culture are alive and thriving through generations in this peaceful community where a quick hello is rare. A stranger becomes a friend quickly as people want to talk, get to know you, and offer a smile. Open arms, comforting food, and lots of tea cures all. Thank you, Fr. Carolan, for your compassionate tribute and the well-put summation of all I observed as a spectator. Initially, I felt like that fish out of water, but that uneasiness quickly vanished. I was often addressed not by my name but by the endearing use of the term “love” so frequently I understood that I came as a stranger but left as family. Community and connection are self-care practices we should prioritize and practice regularly. Making the best of an unexpected situation where neighbors come together to aid in the grieving process is a beautiful opportunity to express love, empathy, and kindness. Remember, even the most minor acts of goodwill can be transformative. These actions guide with a greater sense of purpose as its beacon. As the community united in grieving with us, I acknowledged it wasn’t just about direct family members; this community was sorrowful, too. They were Jim’s secondary family; together, we honored his life and memory respectfully. As Irish folklore states, “A stranger is someone you haven’t met yet.” Just as divided as the world seems lately, some will drop it all and lend a kind word, a nod, and loads of freshly baked brown bread (the best!) to show how much they care. In times of sorrow or celebration, collective unity and strength contributed to something larger than all of us, offering reassuring hope and comfort to those who needed it. Up Cavan In good health