May 1, 2015: Mayday in Ireland. A celebration of the beginning of spring … protests … a day of diversity … the first day of my birthday month! It’s been interesting being in Ireland at this point in its history. There is a great deal at stake, and I intend to do some research and follow this political storm. Signs are posted everywhere … “We already have civil unions … vote no!” “Discrimination damages lives … Vote yes!” We are past much of this dissension in the U.S. (and certainly in my own mind), but it is alive and well here.
It is a country of contrast, and it’s been fascinating to observe.
This afternoon, we stopped at Waterford on the way to Dublin. It is the oldest city in Ireland, and home of the Waterford Crystal Factory. I initially thought this would be one we might skip, but I’m so glad we didn’t. The artistry and craftsmanship that go in to these pieces defy description. The process of apprenticeship (up to ten years for some trades) takes intense dedication and hard work. I am coming home with two stunning wine glasses that I know I will treasure forever.
We made our way back to Dublin. My sister was getting impatient with my love of photography, so she headed back to the room while I wandered. I noticed there are a lot of homeless in the area, so I dug out a handful of euros, and stuck them in my pocket. I found one homeless man sleeping, and I tucked a couple of euros where he’d be likely to find them. I spoke with another, fully intending to give him some money, but I felt compelled to talk to him for a bit. It was obvious he was used to being dismissed, so my interest in his story was a little puzzling to him, I think. I asked him enough questions to know he and his sister (aged 14), had run from an abusive home and were on the streets. How much was true, and how much was fabricated, I’ll never know. But the desperation? It’s universal.
I saw a beautifully handcrafted crystal Cinderella coach drawn by fine horses today. It was priced at €40,000 (close to $45,000). I also saw a man with a shabby sleeping bag as his only source of warmth. We live in a crazy, crazy quilt, don’t we? But it’s beautiful. All of it.