Going Green
One of the enduring symbols of spring around the world is the celebration of Irish American Culture that is known as St. Patrick’s Day. Traditionally it’s a cultural and religious holiday that is celebrated on the day that Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, died. While it’s a public holiday in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, in the United States, and elsewhere around the world, it's celebrated for fun and frolic. The celebrations here in the U.S. include a huge parade in New York City, as well as lively parties in cities and towns across the country. But, just where did the tradition of wearing green stem from? Sorry for the pun, but I was curious to know just what that grassy color symbolizes. Who hasn’t seen folks dressed in their finest green attire on the street or at work? While doing some research I found out that the original color that was linked to Saint Patrick and his commemorative day was blue! But, based on Irish folklore, Ireland’s patron saint used a green three-leaved shamrock to illustrate the Holy Trinity to non-believers, and thus, the color green won out. Nowadays this shade is representative of not only Ireland, but of growth and renewal in many ways. Green simply can’t miss as a major color for spring attire; and it provides a wee dash of lush life to any outfit all year long.
