Today being Saint Patrick's Day, I find myself thinking of those fine Irish souls in my life, both present and departed. My father, Brian Charles, never leaves my mind. His kind nature and robust personality touched everyone he met. He would proudly introduce his friends to me and proclaim, "I taught him everything I know...and even a little I don't know." So that's where I get it. I often wish I could play another game of pool with him.
I am also missing my great aunt Peggy with whom I became reacquainted on my first trip back to Ireland in 2006. She was so sweet yet so full of sorrow. I wished I had not been absent from her life for so long and unable to remain with her in Ireland since. Still, she welcomed me in like I had never been more than a few doors away.
Then there is Dennis. The most Irish of my Jewish friends. He was witty and kind to a fault. I will never forget what a great friend he was. Were it not for him, I may never have become a gear-head and rebuilt a big block. Working on my car is not the same without him.
And, of course there are my Irish brothers who are thankfully still here. Scott who I could not describe in brief. We go back so far and the future wouldn't be much without him. And Sean who might actually be my brother. We are kindred souls, that's for sure. And Mike, too. He's not Irish but he might as well be. If I can't meet up with Scott and Sean and Mike tonight, I will most definitely raise a pint to them.
Many others are crossing my mind now. To all,
Slainte.
