All year, I have been told of the beauty of Glendalough, but nothing could have prepared me for its utter magnificence. As my time in Ireland nears its close, I have been reflecting back on what this new home means to me. The people that have welcomed me like family have blessed me with their companionship and generosity this year. Glendalough is just one of many spectacular sights I have been shown around Ireland, truly having explored North, South, East, and West. I will miss the boundless natural beauty of this little island almost as much as I will miss the people.
Ireland’s natural beauty was not lost on St. Kevin, who is known to have a deep love for nature and for seeing harmony and God’s presence through it. He settled in Glendalough, where we saw many spots at which he resided and worshiped. It was wonderful to envision how it must have been to be all alone, soaking in the Wicklow Mountains and lake-views. I want to carry what I have learned from St. Kevin with me as I prepare to return to the hustle and bustle of the States. He found joy and peace in solitude and in nature, prioritizing them. Those two can be difficult to find without being sought out, and I hope to make time for both.
As much as St. Kevin was desiring solitude, he welcomed followers of Christ that came to join him. Though time in solitude is valuable, it is also important to be in fellowship with others and see Christ in one another. I am eager, though somewhat apprehensive, for this next chapter and the people I will encounter and befriend. Even so, I am saddened just thinking about those I will say goodbye to here. Everyone I have met has brought so much joy and love into my life and taught me more about myself. I want to thank all the people that poured their time and love into me, and who have positively impacted my life in so many ways.
I have spent essentially every day with Emily and Becca, my two roommates, coworkers, confidants, exploration buds, and, most, importantly, friends. Not knowing each other before coming here, it is wild to think that I have spent far more hours with them this year than my own family. I can no longer imagine my life without them in it, and I cannot think of Ireland without them coming to mind. Their constant support, love, and laughter have kept me going this year. Community living is tough, and I would be lying if I said it did not come with its own unique set of challenges. Nevertheless, it has allowed the three of us to grow so much as individuals and in love for one another.
As hard as it was to be away from family, I cannot imagine how much harder it would have been without Father Barry and Father Denis. They treated me and the other girls like family, accepting us into their homes, hosting us for meals, and showing us all over Ireland. We truly have been spoiled by their generosity, and I cannot thank them enough for the way they pour themselves into this program and us.
I am also so grateful for my family in Dublin, Sammie and Lizo. It is so nice to know that there are two people outside of HoB Wexford who understand firsthand House of Brigid. I love getting to share this experience with you guys. You both bring so much laughter, joy, and fun into my life, and I appreciate your support and chats. Cannot wait to see the great things that await the two of you.
Through House of Brigid, I have been blessed with, not just one Anne, but two Annes! Notre Dame Anne and Sister Anne are two extraordinary pillars of support, both making themselves readily available for advice, a nice chat, a slight breakdown, whatever it may be, they are there for me. With the stress of the busy season in the parish, community life, and discerning the future, I am so grateful to have been guided and encouraged by these two incredible women.
At the Church, I have gotten to know parishioners through daily chats and lots of laughs. Tea after mass each day was always a highlight with the Tea Ladies, who never fail to surprise and entertain. They always make sure I am taken care of, offering lifts and sweets. I also loved getting to work with Karen and Declan, who do such great and important work to ensure the parish’s success. Parishioners are often checking in and telling me “I am on the list” for their prayers, which has been such a nice comfort being far from home. Thank you to my Clonard community for being my friends, you will be deeply missed.
To the donors and House of Brigid founders that make this wonderful experience possible, thank you. Your generosity allows for us to continue to pour our love into students and parishioners and for them to pour into us. I am so appreciative to have gotten to spend a year exploring a new country, learning about a new culture, meeting so many wonderful people, and growing in my faith.
Thank you also to the youth workers and young people at FDYS Coolcotts for welcoming me in and teaching me about Irish customs and foods like crisps sandwiches, biscuit cake, and bonbons. I have enjoyed building relationships with each and everyone that I have gotten the chance to meet through FDYS. To Debbie, thank you for sharing with me what you do and about volunteering opportunities at FDYS– so glad I ran into you! There is such incredible work being done and an outpouring of love happening at the project, and I am so grateful to be a part of it.
I could go on and on, but then I would be on the airplane home still typing about the people and places that have positively impacted me! In September, I could not even begin to picture what this year would be like. In December, I could not fathom the remainder of the year passing so quickly. In May, I could not imagine making it one more day without seeing family. And now, in June, I cannot believe the year is wrapping up and that I am preparing to part ways with Wexford. My time here, though not without its challenges, has been such a priceless gift. Thank you Clonard, thank you Wexford, thank you House of Brigid, and thank you God.
