Go n-éirí leat
by Mary Kate Campbell
It is no secret that the Irish follow a strict adherence to traditions and superstitions. As a kid I was taught to avoid walking under ladders, to not cross paths with a black cat, and when your nose itches it means you’re going to get into a fight or kiss a fool.
As we ring in a new year, there are several steps the Irish take to rid themselves of bad luck and ensure good luck for the coming twelve months:
To ensure good luck, here’s a little hack
At the stroke of midnight
Enter through the front door
Then leave through the back
A lot of meaning is placed
on the first New Year’s visitor to pass through your door:
Beware if she’s a red head
For it is bad luck she’ll give
But if it is a tall dark handsome man
Good luck in your house will live
To remember loved ones passed:
There is no need to fast
At the first dinner of the New Year
Unlock the front door and set them a place
For their soul an easy return home before all can say grace
To drive out evil spirits, and welcome prosperity
A loaf of bread is all you need
Bang the bread against your walls
And from back luck your house will be freed
A tradition for the whole family
Mothers, fathers, and children all take a part
Must clean the house from top to bottom
To bring about a renewed hope and a fresh start
If you wish to find love
In the coming year
Sleep with a sprig of mistletoe under your pillow
And your dreams will be filled of your future dear
According to the Irish
Follow these to a T
And by next December 31st
You’ll be as happy as one can be
