My Irish Heart Breaks

 

With pride, to watch Glen and Lisa, Denise and Iarla, and all the Other Voices,

Being the beacon of courage that Ireland didn't know it needed.

 

With gratitude, for those risking it all outside,

So the rest can stay inside.

 

With sympathy, for the 1,583 people lost so far,

And for their families left without funerals.

 

With sadness, to hear of Pieta, Father Peter McVerry and the many many others,

That step into the breach when policies and state funding are found wanting.

 

With relief, that decisions are being made from the advice of experts,

Despite what the neighbours are doing.

 

With shame, to think of the poor souls stuck in Direct Provision,

Interned in a country that treats cattle better.

 

With frustration, to hear Leo say there's no such thing as free money,

When McWilliams says they'll pay us to take it.

 

With fascination, to see the Irish spirit on Twitter,

With Ruth's windows, Paddy's PPE, and Stairlift Ascends to name a few among many.

 

Le díomá, gur síleann daoine nach bhfuil Gaeilge chomh maith le Béarla,

In aoinneoin gurb í ár dteanga féin í. 

 

With excitment, to watch from outside how Ireland is growing,

With more political engagement, climate awareness, and covid adaptations.

 

With anticipation, of car less streets, a green economy, and appreciation of the arts.

Once homelessness, housing and health are fixed.

 

My Irish heart breaks sometimes, from not being at home,

But is strengthened, because home is always with me.