The Irish really got this right.  Their expression of “When Irish Eyes are Smiling” captures one of the most fundamental truths I know.  While most people (especially Americans) believe it’s the mouth that smiles, in truth, it’s the eyes.

My father was not a big smiler.  He was a very old-world European, true gentleman in the finest sense of the word.  Exceptionally dignified, almost like royalty.  Yes, he smiled, but he was not a BIG smiler, if you know what I mean.  He smiled from time to time.

But his eyes smiled.  Always.

I had no doubt he loved me, just the way he looked at me.

I had the good fortune to work in Ireland over the course of 10 years, spent a lot of time there.  It’s one of my all time favorite countries to work in.  I love the Irish, especially their sense of humor and warmth.  It’s the land “of a thousand welcomes”, that it is for sure.

On this St. Patrick’s Day, I salute the Irish!

May your eyes find many reasons to smile!

Love,

Ingrid