As we prepare to say good-bye to 2014 and celebrate the start of 2015, I’m avoiding my annual pit-fall of writing a long list of resolutions. I’m only destined to break them long before the end of January.
As 2014 draws to a close, I’m simply taking time for reflection.
Instead of sharing ill-fated resolutions with you this year, I created a photo collection highlighting my favorite Celtic quotations and blessings, focusing upon the gifts of peacefulness, calm and reflection.
When I read these words uttered by Michael Collins, I feel a deep sense of sadness.
He lost his life for Ireland’s freedom, never finding the peace he so longed for.
May he rest in peace, knowing his sacrifices are appreciated by generations.
William Butler Yeats coined the most famous of all Irish words about seeking peace.
In 1888 he wrote “The Lake Isle of Innisfree”. His poignant words echo with many of us, who long for a quiet place, close to nature, to be alone, and to find our own inner peace.
However, at the end of his beautiful poem, Yeats reveals he shall only go there in his heart.
And so this New Year, I hope you too find peace in your heart.
Here are my New Year wishes for all those who read my ramblings ……
May the blessings of contentment be with you
and fill your home with happiness.
May you find time to be alone,
and at peace with your thoughts.
May you experience joy and fulfillment
in the present moment.
May your soul find peace
And strength in silence.
May the beauty of the world
draw you where you need to go.
And as you continue on life’s journey,
May you remember it is not always your destination,
but your journey that truly matters.
Whether you are lucky enough to travel to a place of solitude to find calm, or if that is not possible, you choose to travel to your quiet place in your heart, I wish you a New Year filled with peace and joy.
Athbhlian Faoi Mhaise Daoibh!
(Happy New Year)
Irish American Mom
Here are some other recipes and ramblings from Ireland, which you might enjoy…
Irish Roadside Art
Why Milk Churns Remind Me Of Ireland
Farmhouse Beef Stew
Ham Broccoli and Gruyère Crustless Quiche- Cauliflower and Bacon Soup
- Boost Your Immune System With Homemade Elderberry Cordial
- Brown Sugar Glazed Baked Carrots
- Quick Easy White Bean and Tuscan Kale Soup
- The Magical Flavors Of Mulled Wine
- Chocolate Dipped Holiday Strawberries
- Celebrating The Irish Tradition Of Christmas Annuals
OK. Love them all but how do you pronounce Happy New Year in Gaelic?
Hi Jeanne – “Athbhlian Faoi Mhaise Daoibh.” in English phonetics would be “Ah-vleen fwee washa deev”
Hope this helps and a very happy New Year to you and yours.
Mairéad
Thanks. I know some of the phonetic equivalents but there are always a few I forget.
Glad to be able to help. All the best!
Thank you Mairead,
this blog was really nice thank you, so full of meaning.
wishing you all a very happy new year x
Maureen – I’m so glad you enjoyed this selection of Irish and Celtic quotations. They seemed like a nice way to welcome the New Year.
Best wishes for a very happy New Year to you and your family too.
Mairéad
Thank you Mairead, for this beautiful post. It inspired me to remember what my focus should be for 2015.
” And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful”. Col. 3:15 God Bless You in the New Year!
Sinita – Thank you for adding this beautiful bible verse. Blessings to you in the New Year.
Mairéad
Thanks for the beauty of Irish Blessings and the
pictures to go along. They are all beautiful and
heart warming.
Ruthe – I’m glad you enjoyed these blessings and photos.
Best wishes for a very happy New Year.
Mairéad
Mairead, you have quoted some of my most treasured Blessings. The pictures were inspiring.
May you and your family have a Blessed, Peaceful, and Quiet (!) New Year.
Maureen
Maureen – I’m delighted to hear you also love these blessings. Every good wish to you too for 2015.
Mairéad
Hope your year is filled with peace and joy, too, Mairead. Love that Old Irish Blessing you shared. Many blessings to you this year, my friend!
Blessings to you too for 2015, Cheryl. I hope the coming year will bring you many successes.
Mairéad