Ah, St. Patrick’s Day. The one day a year when we all pretend to be Irish, wear green (mostly to avoid getting pinched), and dream of finding that elusive pot of gold. But what if the real treasure isn’t hidden at the end of the rainbow? What if it’s tucked away in the stories, we’re all carrying with us, just waiting to be unearthed? And what if your writing is the magic key that unlocks it?
Now, before you think I’ve been drinking a little too much of the Irish whiskey (even though Jack Daniel’s is more my speed), hear me out. Writing is a lot like searching for that pot of gold. You don’t always know what’s there, but as you dig deeper, you find more value in the process than in the result.
Think about it: Have you ever sat down to write and thought, “I’m going to write about a life-changing experience today”—and then somehow ended up writing about your fifth-grade teacher’s bizarre obsession with owls? No? Just me? Ok, well, the point still stands: Sometimes, the writing journey surprises you. And sometimes, it brings you to unexpected places where your gold is hidden.
Here’s where St. Patrick’s Day comes in. While I may not be Irish (I promise, no leprechaun claims here), I still love using the day as an excuse to reflect and write. Whether it’s about a favorite tradition or an unexpected life lesson, St. Patrick’s Day reminds us that we can uncover hidden gems in our past stories that, like gold, shine brighter the more we explore them.
And if you’re wondering where I stand on the “traditional” St. Patrick’s Day fare, I’m all about corned beef and cabbage. There’s something magical about the savory, salty goodness of corned beef paired with the cabbage that, in my opinion, should be declared a national treasure (or at least a St. Patrick’s Day treasure). But, of course, that’s not all. I also have a sweet spot for candy, especially the kind that comes in the shape of shamrocks (though I may or may not end up eating more than I should). And let’s not forget my ultimate favorite treat: the Shamrock Shake from McDonald’s. It’s like the official drink of the holiday for those of us who love the minty, green indulgence.
But here’s the real pot of gold I’m talking about, writing. Just like the rainbow leading to the treasure, your writing journey can take you to places you never expected—whether it’s a memory about a favorite food, a funny moment, or even a reflection on how far you’ve come.
So, I challenge you this St. Patrick’s Day: Treat the day as an excuse to reflect, write, and uncover those golden memories tucked away in your past. Maybe it’s about a time when you overcame an obstacle, or a simple memory like enjoying corned beef and cabbage with family. Whatever it is, use this day to dig deeper and see what gold you can find.
And if you’re lucky, you might just discover that your own pot of gold isn’t made of coins, it’s the stories, the memories, and the lessons that have shaped you into who you are today. Plus, there’s always candy, and a Shamrock Shake to help you along the way.
Now, excuse me while I go dig around for my own “pot of gold” in the form of a Shamrock Shake (and maybe a side of Jack Daniel’s). Happy St. Patrick’s Day and may your pen (and your stomach) always be full!
“Like a raven chasing shiny treasures, may luck and gold find you this St. Patrick’s Day.”
