The Truth About St. Patrick’s Day: Myths, Legends & Traditions

Rich & Wendy 0:00
Hey, everyone is Rich Bennett. Can you believe it? The show is turning ten this year. I am so grateful for each and every one of you who've tuned in, shared an episode, or even joined the conversation over the years. You're the reason that this podcast has grown into what it is today. Together, we shared laughs, tears and moments that truly matter. So I want to thank you for being part of this journey. Let's make the next ten years even better. Coming to you from the Freedom Federal Credit Union Studios. Harford County Living presents conversations with Rich Bennett. 

Today, I'm going to get kind. 

No, no, no. The truth is. 

Rich Bennett 1:00
Welcome to conversations with Rich Bennett. I'm your host, Rich Bennett. And today, we're diving into something a little different. Today is March 17th, 20, 25, St Patrick's Day. And this episode is all about St Patrick's Day, filled with tradition myths, celebrations, and. And plenty of green. So much green, my beards actually dyed green. Whether you're Irish or Irish at heart, there's something special about this day that brings people together. So who exactly was Saint Patrick? You're many people think he was Irish, but believe it or not, Saint Patrick was actually born in Britain in the late fourth century. He was captured and enslaved in Ireland at just 16 years old and escaped six years later. But something incredible happened. Patrick Felt called to return to Ireland, this time to bring Christianity to the Irish people. He spent his life spreading messages of faith, hope and unity. But let's talk about some of the most famous legends about Saint Patrick. You know, we've all heard the story about how he banished snakes from Ireland, right? Well, that's a fascinating myth. The reality. There were never snakes in Ireland to begin with. But the snakes symbolize the driving out of paganism and the introduction of Christianity. So now, how did this religious celebration you become such a lively event all around the world? Irish immigrants, especially here in America, used the day to proudly showcase their heritage. Today, St Patrick's Day parades and festivities have become a global phenomena. Think about New York City's massive parade. Or better yet, the dying of the Chicago River. Vibrant green. It's a day where we're all a little bit Irish and speaking of green. Do you know why we wear green on St Patrick's Day? See, originally Blue was associated with Saint Patrick, but Green took over. Due to Ireland's nickname, the Emerald Isle and the green stripe on the Irish flag symbolizing Irish nationalism. Legend also says wearing green makes you invisible to leprechauns who would pinch anyone they could see. So you might want to keep that in mind. In sports, your green attire. And speaking of green attire. So like I said, I got my 

beard or goatee, I guess you could say dyed green. Got my green. Boston Scaly. Of course, the green clothes. Except for the part. I'm not wearing green pants, but, you know, green shirt. And it's a family tradition for us because my father was very, very big into St Patrick's Day, loved his Irish heritage. And my father passed away on March 15th, actually 20 years ago. So for his viewing at the funeral home and I'll never forget this. A lot of people will never forget it. It's the first time I've ever seen, I guess you could say, was tailgating at the funeral home, because when people would come to pay their respects, me and my older brother Terry were sitting out in the parking lot before people could go in. They either had a drink, a Budweiser, which at the time was my father's favorite beer, or do a shot of I believe we had scotch. Dad loves scotch. You know, I don't think he was a big fan of Irish whiskey, but he loved the Scotch. And then they could go in and it you know, they they didn't say anything. family, all the. All of us works over. My older brother is in C's pass. But my sister, my other brother, all the. The spouses, the kids, the grandkids. We start with breakfast in the morning, all wearing our green, of course. And then from there we head to the cemetery where mom and dad are. And my first daughter. So we'll go there. And I got to admit it, it looks kind of strange. I haven't seen anybody else do it. We'll sit there at the gravesite with a cooler full of beer and drink to that. Except for Mom. Mom, You know, my sister brings a cup of coffee for mom and puts out there, and we'll sit there and have a beer with dad and mom, and then we'll walk over to where my daughter is and have a beer with her. Then from there. Now, keep in mind, we do have a designated driver, so not everybody is drinking. And I'm not a big fan of Budweiser anyways. Sorry, Dad. And then from there we head to the local dive bar, the dugout, actually. And we'll spend some time there and play shuffleboard and pool. Just. Have a good time. One of the times that the family gets together and then from there we usually hit the Havre de Grace for dinner. And it's a whole day of celebration. Memories and making new memories. And we we just we love it. It's something I think everybody in the family looks forward to every year. And actually, here in Maryland, St Patrick's days, all we celebrate it with energy and enthusiasm and of course, memories from local pubs like loonies and shine balloons offering traditional Irish fare and live music. The community events and parades. It's a wonderful opportunity for all of us to come together, enjoy some corned beef and cabbage, and maybe even sip a pint of Guinness. Or one of my favorites is an Irish old fashioned. But beyond the parties, this day is a beautiful reminder of resilience, cultural pride and unity. The Irish faced adversity and challenges, but maintained our traditions, shared their culture, and created a global community celebrating kindness, hospitality and friendship. So today for St Patrick's Day, whether you're gathering with friends or family or both attending a parade or just enjoying the day at home, take a moment to appreciate what this celebration really represents unity, perseverance and community spirit. And actually let me know what you guys did for St Patrick's Day. Some of you may not even be celebrating St Patrick's Day, although I do believe everybody thinks they are Irish on St Patrick's Day. So leave a note in the comments. Semi a voicemail. Just go to conversations with Rich Ben. You'll be able to come of course conversations with Rich Bennett dot com and you can find several different ways to leave me a message so as always keep spreading the power of positivity and enjoy your St Patrick's Day. Challenger. 

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