It would be nice to blame it on getting older, and while that may be somewhat true, the greater truth is I have always been a bit of a sucker for a good quote. And perhaps it is because of the influence of Irish immigrants and Irish Americans, but there are plenty of good Irish quotes that are rather well known. In fact, there are too many to choose from for this time of year — with St. Patrick’s Day less than a week away.

Last year, with the St. Patrick’s Day parade returning for the first time in three years, I wrote about Sláinte — a saying used to toast, meaning health and wellness. Our photo op on the southeast corner of the square once again has that word displayed. And that is definitely relevant. The nice thing, though, about having so many sayings is that each year there can be a different one to highlight. So, this year, Main Street Monroe is leaning a bit more into teaghlach. 

The Irish word for family, it has been front of mind. Three of the most prominent Irish families in the community (that have been a part of celebrating St. Patrick’s Day since before Main Street Monroe existed) have experienced losses within the last few months. Even more have since the last parade in 2019 — like so many. One famous Irish saying is Ní neart go cur le chéile. Pronounced nee nyart guh cur leh ch (k)ay-leh, it translates to “there is strength in unity.” 

Like most of life, that leaves room for interpretation. Unity can have a fluid definition. Family can mean different things on different days. And while we are all likely to automatically define family by those we grew up with and those we live with now and are raising or even our work family, I am struck by family as it relates to Main Street Monroe. Our Queen of Green this year is Mrs. Polly Whalen and the Grand Marshall is Tom Ganshert. The Hamilton clann is once again coordinating the festivities. And so, while I am sucker for a good quote, I also want to spare everyone from platitudes. You no doubt have a good idea where I am going with this. However, in a sure sign of getting older, I have a growing appreciation for family and not just for a particular definition. And I no doubt have a greater appreciation for tradition. Not just the appropriated and simplified version of it.

Thanks to many of the people I just mentioned, I have learned that a four-leaf clover is believed to be lucky for its protective and magical powers. A shamrock, also a symbol of Ireland, is known specifically as the symbol of the Holy Trinity: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. I have also learned that we wear green to ward off evil spirits (leprechauns), and Saint Patrick is, at least originally, celebrated for bringing faith. 

Whether that is especially pertinent to you, I cannot say. I will instead reaffirm that I hope the blessings of Saint Patrick behold you, the luck of the Irish enfold you, and that you and your family are able to celebrate with us at the parade this upcoming Friday. It starts at 5:17 p.m.

—  Jordan Nordby is the executive director for Main Street Monroe. He can be reached at MonroeMainStreet@tds.net. Complete details on Main Street Monroe and its efforts can be found at mainstreetmonroe.org.