This is where you stick random tidbits of information about yourself.
Just Jen
Wednesday, March 13, 2002 Irish Hospitality
There is something to be said for Irish pubs. I don't know if it's the convivial atmosphere, the folks of all ages gathered, or the plethora of Irish beers on tap, but they feel much more welcoming and inviting than most other bars. Last night at the Dubliner we were graced with live music and thanks to the fine folks at Bushmills, free shots of Irish whiskey not to mention t-shirts, shot glasses, pins, jester hats, etc... Combined with excellent company, it made for a rather fine evening. One that definitely bears repeating.
Tuesday, March 12, 2002
Yesterday I posted my regrets about not being able to see the 9/11 special; today I learned one of my co-workers taped it. Excellent. If anyone is interested in viewing it sometime, please let me know.
If You're Irish and You Know It, Clap Your Hands....
Top o' the morning to you all, just a reminder that tonight we will be meeting for a pre-St. Patty's Day Happy Hour at the Dubliner around 6:30. I look forward to seeing you all then.
11:38 AM
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Monday, March 11, 2002 9/11
I'm sad I missed the special last night. I hear from all who watched it, that it was poignant and moving. But while home this weekend, I had my own experience of the 6 month anniversary that put the events in perspective for me. In a way I think even the media couldn't.
I grew up just outside NYC, in a rather small town - we just had our second trafic light installed - I still think it was a mistake. While home this weekend, I went to my local church, the parish I attended as a child, worshipped and converted in as a teen, and pray fondly in as an adult. I love going to St. Andrew's. I love listening to the Irish priest with his brogue. I love knowing so many of the familes. I love that everyone, yes everyone, holds hands during the Our Father. And I especially love the music ministry. It definitely makes going to music-challenged churches difficult. St. Andrew's was not untouched by September 11. I don't think there was a community in Northern New Jersey that wasn't affected. During the homily, Fr. Hahn told stories form the three young mothers of the parish left widowed last September. For me, the horror of 9/11 is more distant. Not that I have put it behind me, but it seems long ago and not as immediate. But being there, in the comfort of this christian community, my christian community and hearing how immediate the horror still is, made me think that maybe I am forgetting too fast. Maybe I am too caught up in the moment of my life. Perhaps more reflection is needed. Lately I am brought to tears by the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Perhaps my mourning should still be with those who mourn still for husbands, wives, daughters and sons. St. Andrew's still mourns with those most grief-stricken. How can I not?
Towers of Light
My timing in going home to NJ was unfortunate in that I did not get to see the two towers of light. It begins tonight on the anniversary and will remain lit through mid April. There is talk of my family coming to DC for Easter, so I may not be up that way again in time to see it. I can't help but think though that being in Battery Park before sunrise on Easter morning seeing the towers of light fade into the brilliance of the rising sun would be part of an exceptionally moving sunrise service. The image of light, resurrection, defeat over darkness, the emergence from hell is so powerful and so caught up in our own emotions of 9/11 that I think it would bring new meaning to many this coming Easter morn. I almost wish I'll be in NJ to do it. I do hope churches in the area see the significance and embrace it for their own.
11:06 AM
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