I love a good Irish storyteller. Have you listened? I think you’ll enjoy this!
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Sean Nos–Old Style Singing
Several years ago I got to know Mike O’Laughlin from the Irish Roots Cafe. Mike publishes Irish genealogy books and resources, and he’s a wealth of information. His podcasts are always interesting as well. But lately Mike’s taken up a hobby, Sean-nós, or old style Irish singing. I love that style, especially done in English so…
The Longing of the Celtic Soul
From my book, Celtic Wisdom: All souls, not only the Celtic soul, are restless. The Irish monks became wanderers precisely because of this longing to find their hearts’ desire. Originally an eighth-century Irish prayer, they hymn Be Thou My Vision beautifully expresses the Celtic soul’s longing for God: Scroll to the bottom to hear Roma Downey’s…
A Prayer for Grace
from the Carmina Gadelica I AM bending my knee In the eye of the Father who created me, In the eye of the Son who died for me, In the eye of the Spirit who cleansed me, In love and desire. Pour down upon us from heaven The rich blessing of Thy forgiveness; Thou…
As the Season Changes
It’s now the dark half of the year. Time to light some candles, brew a cup of tea, and snuggle up in front of the fire. I shall miss the beautiful fall colors. While the trees were putting on a spectacular show I remarked to my husband that we had to enjoy them now, and…
Music Review: Winterfold
I like listening to instrumental music while I write, and I’ve found Jeff Johnson and Brian Dunning’s work to be among the best–gentle, inspiring, and decidedly Celtic. I posted an interview with Jeff Johnson earlier. Back when the interview first ran he asked if I’d like to review his latest CD. Of course I said, “Yes,…
An Interview with Musician Jeff Johnson
This is an interview I did back in 2012. I thought it deserved new life, so I’m presenting it here again. Today I’m blessed to be bringing you my interview with musician Jeff Johnson, who has a remarkable Celtic voice. I have been a fan for a long time. If you’re not familiar with his…
Thoughts on Halloween
Not my favorite holiday, but I don’t have anything against trick-or-treat fun. It’s fun for the kids, and some adults are still kids at heart. No one I know is out to promote evil on this day. Those who do, do it on any day of the year, I would imagine. So I’m not up…
Desires
Desires MAY I speak each day according to Thy justice, Each day may I show Thy chastening, O God; May I speak each day according to Thy wisdom, Each day and night may I be at peace with Thee. Each day may I count the causes of Thy mercy, May I each day give…
Grief is One Room in a House
Grief for her is a room in the house of her mind. No windows. One door. Not a scary space or a place she avoids. In fact, she often seeks its confines. When emotions rise like a building thundercloud, she is drawn to that room. Opening the door and stepping inside, she feels embraced. Quietly…