Ireland unfree shall never be at peace

 

How Life Is Meant To Be

                                                                                  

                                                            

Original Song: How Life Is Meant To Be by Patrick Conlan.

Song taken from a poem I wrote about mental health Poems

                                                                 Walking along

Keep eyes to the ground

Counting my steps

Calming me down

Always on edge

Until a safe place

 

No fear for myself

But those I may meet

That the rage that’s inside me

Won’t be released

Has been there as long

As I care to remember

 

Catch me off guard

That’s when it’s too late

Can happen so fast

Can’t always control it

 

You’re too quiet some say

But they don’t know

How hard it is keeping control

 

The comfort I feel

When I’m with my family

 I think that they know

How hard some days can be

 

Over the years

Some days a torment

Hard work keeping calm

I really need rest

 

Heart pumping in chest

Watching the clock

Is it time for home yet

 

That’s where I feel calmest 

Surrounded by family

Just sitting no worries

How life is meant to be

Poems

 

How Life Is Meant To Be © 2025 by Patrick Conlan is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 4.0. To view a copy of this license, visit https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/

The Enchanting World of Ireland's Wee Folk

 The Wee Folk of Ireland

The Wee Folk, also known as the fairies or the Good People, are an important part of Irish folklore and mythology. They are believed to be supernatural beings who inhabit a parallel world to our own, and have the ability to interact with humans. The Wee Folk are said to be capricious and unpredictable, and should be treated with respect and caution.

According to legend, the Wee Folk come in many shapes and sizes, and have a wide variety of magical powers. Some are helpful and kind to humans, while others are mischievous or even malevolent. They are said to live in fairy mounds, ringforts, and other hidden places in the Irish countryside. It is believed that the Wee Folk can be seen by those who possess a special gift of second sight, but most people are advised not to try to seek them out.

Despite their reputation for being unpredictable, the Wee Folk are an important part of Irish culture and tradition. They are celebrated in stories, songs, and artwork, and are a beloved symbol of Ireland's rich cultural heritage. Whether they are real or not, the Wee Folk continue to capture the imagination of people all around the world.

 

The Evictions Of The Irish In Their Own Land

The mass evictions of the Irish in the 1800s represent a harrowing chapter in Irish history, yet their full scale remains shrouded in uncertainty.

The absence of comprehensive records makes it difficult to determine the precise number of people evicted during those tumultuous years.

However, historians estimate that between 250 and 500 thousand families were forcibly removed from their homes.

The devastation was particularly acute in the western and southwestern counties, where poverty was most entrenched.

These regions witnessed a mass exodus of desperate souls, forced to flee their ancestral lands due to the cruel evictions.

The lack of accurate records is a poignant reminder of the marginalized status of the Irish during this period.

Their plight often went unnoticed and unrecorded by those in power.

The true scale of the eviction tragedy can only be gleaned from fragmented accounts, folk memory, and the haunting ruins that dot the Irish landscape.

Despite the challenges in quantifying the evictions, the available evidence paints a chilling picture of widespread displacement and suffering.

The sheer magnitude of this human tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the impact on the Irish people by the Brit landlords..

The evictions did not occur as a single, monolithic event, but rather unfolded in distinct waves, each driven by a combination of factors.

Historians generally identify four significant phases of eviction, each marked by its own characteristics and consequences.

The first wave, beginning in eighteen forty's, was characterised by smaller-scale evictions, primarily targeting tenants who had fallen behind on rent due to the initial impact of the potato blight.

A second, more aggressive wave swept across the country in eighteen forty-seven, driven by a combination of factors, including the failure of government relief efforts.

The third wave, coinciding with the enactment of the Encumbered Estates Act in eighteen forty-nine, witnessed a surge in evictions as landlords offload properties.

This legislation, intended to facilitate the sale of such estates, inadvertently fueled a wave of land clearances as new owners sought to consolidate holdings and evict tenants deemed unprofitable.

The final wave, extending into the eighteen fifties, reflected a continuation of these trends.

The cumulative impact of these successive waves of eviction was devastating, leaving scars on the Irish landscape and psyche that would linger for generations.

To grasp the true horror of the evictions, one must delve into the personal stories of those who endured this traumatic experience.

The accounts, passed down through generations, offer a glimpse into the human cost of this historical tragedy.

One such story is that of Bridget O'Donnell and her family, evicted from their small holding in County Mayo in eighteen forty-seven.

With their meagre possessions piled high on a donkey cart, they joined the throngs of destitute souls on the road, their fate uncertain.

Bridget later recalled witnessing the lifeless bodies of those who had succumbed to hunger and disease along the way,a chilling testament to the desperate circumstances put upon the Irish people.

Another poignant account tells of Patrick Byrne, a tenant farmer in County Roscommon,who watched in despair as the bailiffs arrived to evict his family.

His pleas for mercy fell on deaf ears as his home was razed to the ground,a common practice employed by landlords to prevent tenants from returning.The image of his family's meagre belongings scattered amidst the rubble serves as a stark reminder of the brutality inflicted upon the Irish peasantry. These personal stories, though difficult to recount, are essential for understanding the human dimension of the evictions.

They provide a voice to the voiceless and remind us that behind the statistics lay real people whose lives were irrevocably shattered by this historical tragedy.

The evictions did not unfold in isolation.Newspapers, both local and national, played a crucial role in documenting these events, albeit with varying degrees of sympathy and accuracy.Their accounts provide invaluable insights into the scale and brutality of the evictions, as well as the social and political context in which they occurred.

Local newspapers, often operating under challenging circumstances, offered firsthand accounts of evictions taking place in their communities. These reports, often graphic in their detail, served as a stark contrast to the often sanitised narratives presented in the British press. Some publications, particularly those aligned with landlord interests, downplayed the severity of the evictions or blamed the victims for their own misfortune. Much like whats happening today.

Reminding us of the power of the press that shape public opinion at times to demonise the victims. And as we see now for the irish people history is repeating itself.

The Haunting Tale of Dearg Due

One of the more popular scary Irish folklore stories tells the tale of the Dearg Due

The Dearg Due is a legendary vampire who is said to haunt the countryside of Ireland. According to folklore, she was a woman who was wronged by a wealthy man and died of a broken heart. She was buried in a grave on the hillside and her spirit is said to come back to life every seven years to feed on the blood of the living.

The Dearg Due is known for her beauty and charm, which she uses to lure her victims into her trap. She is said to appear as a beautiful woman dressed in red, hence the name "Dearg Due," which means "Red Blood Sucker" in Irish Gaelic.

People who believe in the legend of the Dearg Due often take precautions to protect themselves from her. One way to do this is to lay a stone on her grave to prevent her from rising from the dead. Another way is to carry a piece of iron, which is believed to repel vampires.

While the existence of the Dearg Due is purely fictional, the legend has been passed down through generations of Irish storytellers and has become a popular part of Irish folklore.

Why The Romans Could Never Conquer Ireland

**The Tragic Fall of Cuchulainn: A Tale of Revenge and Valor**

In the aftermath of the fierce conflict between Connacht and Ulster, the legendary warrior Cuchulainn returned to his home in Dundalk, weary yet triumphant. However, his victory was overshadowed by the vengeful heart of Queen Maeve, who held him responsible for her forces' defeat. In her quest for retribution, Maeve devised a sinister plan that would haunt Cuchulainn and his legacy.

Among the casualties of the war was Cailidín, a man whose death left six children orphaned. Maeve, seizing the opportunity, took the children under her wing at her stronghold in Cruachan. As they grew, she sent them to a sorcery school, where they transformed into goblins and mastered the arcane arts. After seven years of training, they returned to Maeve, armed with three enchanted spears, each capable of bringing about Cuchulainn's demise.

With her dark scheme in motion, Maeve dispatched the goblins to ensnare Cuchulainn's mind. They conjured the haunting sounds of battle, filling his ears with the clamor of war. Convinced that Ulster was under siege, Cuchulainn hastily made his way to the King’s fort at Eamhain Macha, determined to gather his weapons and chariot. Despite the warnings of Cathbad the druid, who sensed treachery in the air, Cuchulainn's resolve was unshakeable. He and his loyal chariot driver, Laeg, sped away, leaving behind a chorus of mournful cries from those who feared for his safety.

As Cuchulainn charged through the Gap of the North, the sight of his chariot instilled terror in Maeve’s forces. Time and again, he cut through their ranks, a whirlwind of fury and skill. Yet, the goblins of Cailidín were not far behind. Riding the winds, they delivered the three magic spears to Lugaid, Cuchulainn’s most formidable adversary.

The first spear flew through the air, aimed at Cuchulainn. He deflected it with his shield, but it found its mark in Laeg, who fell lifeless from the chariot. Enraged, Cuchulainn pressed on, but the second spear struck his noble steed, the Grey of Macha, sending the horse crashing to the ground. In a fit of fury, Cuchulainn leaped from the chariot, wielding his sword with unmatched ferocity, driving back the enemy forces.

But Lugaid was relentless. He hurled the final spear, and this time, it pierced Cuchulainn’s side. The great warrior, feeling the weight of death upon him, summoned his last reserves of strength. He dragged himself to a nearby pillar and, with his cloak, bound himself upright, defiantly facing his foes. For three long days, no one dared approach the fallen hero, their fear palpable in the air.

It was only when a raven alighted upon his shoulder that his enemies understood the truth: Cuchulainn, the invincible warrior, was no more. His tragic end marked the fall of a legend, a poignant reminder of the cost of vengeance and the fleeting nature of glory. In the annals of history, his story would endure, a tale of bravery, betrayal, and the indomitable spirit of a hero who faced his fate with unwavering courage.

Grace Gifford

 In the chapel here in old Kilmainham Jail

 they have told us we must yearn for liberty

All i want in this dark place is to have you here with me.

hold me in your arms and let this moment linger

at dawn and I will die

With all my love I place this wedding ring upon your finger

There won’t be time to share our love for we must say goodbye.

Now I know it’s hard for you my love to ever understand

The love I bear for these brave men, my love for this dear land

when the Padhraic called me to his side down in the GPO

Ito him I had to go 

is dawn is breaking, my heart is breaking too,

On this May morn as I walk out my thoughts will be of you

I’ll write some words upon the wall so everyone will see

I love so much that I could see his blood upon the rose. 

Ireland's Fight For Freedom

Struggles for Independence

The struggle for Irish independence is a significant chapter in our nation's history. For centuries, Ireland was under English control, leading to numerous uprisings and movements for autonomy. 

under the common name of Irishmen in order to break the connection with England, the never failing source of all our political evils, that was my aim.’
In 1798, an underground republican group known as the Society of United Irishmen instigated a major uprising against British rule in Ireland. Although the revolt ended in total defeat for the rebels, it marked a significant watershed in Irish history.

The Easter Rising (1916): A pivotal moment that eventually led to the establishment of the Irish Free State in 1922.
The Rising was a collaboration between several militant republican groups, including the Irish Volunteers, the Irish Citizen Army, and Cumann na mBan. 
What happened
The patriots took over key buildings in Dublin, including the General Post Office, the Four Courts, and Jacob's Factory. They then repelled British attempts to remove them. The British responded by bringing in reinforcements and using artillery to destroy the buildings. 
Aftermath
The British executed 16 of the Rising's leaders starting in May 1916. The British response to the Rising turned the majority of the Irish public away from Home Rule and towards Irish independence. The Rising was a seminal moment in modern Irish history, helping pave the way to the nation's independence in 1922. But still in the brits control were six of out counties.

The Provisional Irish Republican Army , emerged in 1969 after a split from the Irish Republican Army (IRA): 

We declare our allegiance to the 32 county Irish republic, proclaimed at Easter 1916, established by the first Dáil Éireann in 1919, overthrown by force of arms in 1922 and suppressed to this day by the existing British-imposed six-county and twenty-six-county partition states ... We call on the Irish people at home and in exile for increased support towards defending our people in the North and the eventual achievement of the full political, social, economic and cultural freedom of Ireland.

• Formation

  The provos was formed by young militant Republicans who were frustrated with the IRA's failure to protect Catholic communities.
• 

  
   
• The provos recruitment increased after the Brits opened fire on a Catholic rally in Derry in 1972, killing 14 unarmed people.
• 

  
  
  

The New Irish Republican Army , Formed in July 2012 after successful negotiations between the Real Irish Republican Army , Republican Action Against Drugs and various other small unaligned Republican groups The New IRA pursuing the "ideals and principles enshrined in the Proclamation of 1916” referring to the “Proclamation of the Republic” issued by the organisers of the 1916 Easter Rising. There goal is the removal of any British military presence and “political interference” from Ireland. However the New IRA has also been critical of the Catholic church, the Republic of Ireland, and mainstream Republican leadership (specifically Sinn Féin).

while Ireland is still divided there will always be Irish patriots.
Tiocfaidh Al La

tales of Eire Was the Irish Potato Famine a Genocide

The Irish Potato Famine of the 1840s—often remembered as a tragic period of starvation and suffering. … But what if I told you it was more than just a famine? What if it was closer to a genocide? … … Let's dive into this dark chapter of history. … The Great Irish Famine resulted in the deaths of over a million people and the emigration of another million. … But here's the thing- the potato blight that devastated the crops wasn't the sole cause of this catastrophe. … The British government actions—or rather, inactions—played a critical role. … … During the famine, Ireland was under British rule. … Despite the mass starvation, the British continued to export food from Ireland. … Yes, you heard that right- while people were dying from hunger, ships laden with grains and livestock were leaving Irish ports. … This wasn't just neglect; it paints a picture of deliberate policies that exacerbated the crisis. … … The British government relief efforts were inadequate and often too late. … Workhouses were overcrowded, and the conditions were appalling. … The Corn Laws, which imposed tariffs on imported grain, were repealed too slowly to make a real difference. … These policies weren't just failures; they were choices made by those in power. … … Some historians argue these actions amount to genocide. … The term is heavy, but consider this- genocide isn't just about direct killing. … It's also about creating conditions that lead to mass death. … The British government decisions led to widespread starvation and disease, conditions that were avoidable. … … Understanding the Irish Potato Famine as more than a natural disaster but as a consequence of oppressive policies forces us to rethink the narratives we're told. … It's a call to critically examine history and contemporary conflicts through a lens of empathy and justice.

Discovering Anamchara The Celtic Soul mate

 Anamchara Soul mate In the Celtic tradition, there is a beautiful understanding of love and friendship. One of the fascinating ideas here is the idea of soul-love; the old Gaelic term for this is anamchara. Anam is the Gaelic word for soul and chara is the word for friend.So anamchara in the Celtic world was the “soul friend.”With the anamchara you could share your inner-most self, your mind and your heart. This friendship was an act of recognition and belonging. When you had an anamchara, your friendship cut across all convention, morality, and category. You were joined in an ancient and eternal way with the “friend of your soul.”The Celtic understanding did not set limitations of space or time on the soul. There is no cage for the soul. The soul is a divine light that flows into you and into your Other.

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The Silent Guards Of Eire.

"Trees are silent guards, they are the listeners and they hold knowledge mankind has long forgotten.”

The Significance of Trees in Irish Folklore and Mythology

Irish folklore and mythology are rich with reverence for trees, which hold a central place in many ancient tales. In particular, the hazel tree is celebrated as the first creation on Earth according to Celtic mythology.

The Hazel Tree and the Well of Wisdom

The first Irish hazel tree is an iconic symbol within these stories. It grew upon the Well of Wisdom, a mystical source believed to contain all knowledge of the universe. As the legend unfolds, a salmon residing in the Well of Wisdom consumed the nuts that fell from the hazel tree, thereby absorbing all the knowledge the tree held. This salmon became known as the Salmon of Knowledge.

Fionn MacCumhaill and the Salmon of Knowledge

The tale continues with Fionn MacCumhaill, a legendary figure in Irish mythology. It was prophesied that the first person to eat the Salmon of Knowledge would inherit all its wisdom. Fionn MacCumhaill was that fortunate individual, and with the knowledge gained from the salmon, he rose to become the leader of the Fianna, a renowned band of warriors.

Trees as Sacred Portals and Protectors

In addition to the myth of the hazel tree, trees in general held profound significance for the ancient Celts. Their unique structure—roots delving deep into the earth and branches extending towards the sky—led the Celts to view trees as sacred doorways to both the underworld and the heavens.

Trees as Homes for Ancestral Spirits

The ancient Irish also believed that trees were the dwelling places of their ancestors' spirits. This belief imbued trees with a protective quality, as they were seen as guardians of the land and its people.

The Guardian Trees of Ireland

Among the many revered trees, five in particular were known as the "Guardian Trees of Ireland." These trees were thought to shelter each of the five provinces of ancient Ireland. According to Celtic folklore, the Guardian Trees were:

• Eó Mugna (Oak tree)

• Bile Tortan (Ash tree)

• Eó Ruis (Yew tree)

• Craeb Daithí (Ash tree)

• Craeb Uisnig (Ash tree)

These trees were believed to have grown from seeds provided by a descendant of the other-world, further emphasising their mythical origins and importance.

In summary, the Irish tales of trees weave a rich tapestry of mythology, blending the natural world with the spiritual and the mystical. These stories continue to capture the imagination, reflecting the deep connection between the Irish people and their land.

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