For at least a year I have been saying the first line of this Irish blessing to myself when trying something new or doing something I find a bit scary.

I do not know why it makes me feel so good.  

Perhaps it is because when I picture the road rising to meet my footsteps I am reminded that if I let go, chances are things will fall gently into place.

Surprisingly, today was the first time I looked up the full blessing. I thought it was just a one or two-line saying.  

I am glad I did.  The last line evokes such a feeling of warmth and safety, not so much for the reference to God, but for being held in the hollow of one’s hand. Mmm, that is just so nice.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

This is my wish for you:

May the road rise to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back,
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
May the rains fall soft upon your fields,
And, until we meet again,
May God hold you in the hollow of His hand.

Have a wonderful day.