The speed at which local, national, and international news is streaming to and past us recently has left me kind of in a fog. I only realized that today was St. Patrick’s Day a few hours after waking up. My wife has been a competitive Irish dancer for over 20 years. St. Patrick’s Day is a day to celebrate.
And yet, this year, it had faded into the background.
An hour or so after I realized today’s date, my next-door neighbor texted me, saying that they usually have a big gathering on St. Patrick’s Day, featuring a big meal. They already had all the fixings and were still making their dinner, but were forgoing the gathering in light of the need to maintain social distancing. He offered to share some of their feast with us, dropping it on our patio at dinner time.
This was an incredibly thoughtful and generous offer. Neighbors taking care of neighbors.
Back in 2018, my wife and I were fortunate enough to spend a week-and-a-half in Ireland, one afternoon of which included a stop at the Old Bushmills Distillery. While there, I bought this bottle of their 12-year distillery reserve. I’ve been waiting to break it open for a special occasion, but without identifying what that special occasion might be.
It just so turns out, today was that special occasion. An otherwise subdued day.
Social distancing.
Taking things one day at a time.
Neighbors helping neighbors.
When my neighbor dropped off the food, I left out a glass of whiskey. We toasted via text and shared a meal together—through the external walls, side-yards, and side-road between our individual dining areas.
At our core, we’re social creatures. We care for those around us. Let’s remember that over these probably trying weeks and months to come. And not forget it when we come out on the other side.
Thank you to my neighbor, a shining example of the good we all have to share with one another.
Happy St. Patrick’s Day. Wishing good health to all.
Sláinte
Machad[.i/]o 