creative practice: emigration

As attention turns to things Irish and Saint Patrick’s Day approaches, I find myself thinking about what it means to be both Irish and American. It’s a good road but not always an easy one, and every time I see the emigration statues in Derry or those murals and photos at the Dublin airport I am reminded of the courage it took, and takes, to launch one’s life out into the deep like that. Creative process is often similar -- launching out into the deep, taking the first step when you cannot see the rest of the journey, and yet, trusting enough to take that step, and survive. And flourish. Thanks to Cathie Ryan, who reminds me of the flourish part, when she sings John Spillane's The Wildflowers.

For the people in my family, and others, who’ve made that journey, physical and creative. And keep making it.

in their honor, and so you'll really be ready for Saint Patrick's Day, here’s a short Irish lesson:

Nochtar é atá dlúithe chroí which means
What’s closest to the heart comes out

and some music, in both English and Irish: Daybreak: Fáinne an Lae from Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh, who when she is not making solo records is the lead singer with Danu, and comes from the Kerry Gaeltacht.