Proverbs and adages have a way of sticking with us—particularly if they come from a trusted source. The Irish have long been known as one of these sources when it comes to wisdom, hope, and a bit of humor. These eight sayings are just a few of the well-known favorites.
- “May the roof above us never fall in, and may we friends beneath it never fall out.”
While the origin of this saying is uncertain, its sentiment is an expression that is still used today as a lighthearted yet heartfelt wish between friends.
- May the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face.
May the rains fall soft upon your fields,
and until we meet again may the Lord
hold you in the palm of his hand.
This Irish blessing is a well-known favorite for friends and acquaintances alike. Display the saying in your home with a plaque that can hang in the entry or a tea towel for the kitchen.
- “You should never let the truth get in the way of a good story.”
Sometimes the truth isn’t quite as interesting as the way you remember the story. Fishing buddies and golf partners are sure to like this plaque as much you.
- “May your blessings outnumber
The shamrocks that grow.
And may trouble avoid you
Wherever you go.”
This blessing is a favorite for those who are traveling or loved ones you don’t have the opportunity to see often.
- “Life is like a cup of tea…
It’s all in how you make it.”
While it may not be uniquely Irish, this saying seems to sum up the Ireland’s optimistic culture. This plaque can serve as a daily reminder to see the tea cup as half full.
- “Now don’t be talking about yourself while you’re here.
We’ll surely be doin’ that after you leave.”
Although many Irish sayings have a dash of humor, this has to be one of the more comical—and to the point—ones. Share the saying with a friend you love dearly.
- “Continual cheerfulness is a sign of wisdom.”
It’s hard to argue with a saying that welcomes joy at all turns.
- “May Brigid bless the house wherein you dwell
Bless every fireside every wall and door
Bless every heart that beats beneath its roof
Bless every hand that toils to bring it joy
Bless every foot that walks its portals through
May Brigid bless the house that shelters you.”
St. Brigid’s (a patron saint of Ireland) blessing is a favorite for housewarming gifts and your own home’s entryway.
Don’t see your favorite included in this list? Share it with us now!
Love the story!
love it–
The well-fed does not understand the lean.
May you be in Heaven a half hour, BEFORE the Devil knows you’re dead. — AND — God Bless You and God Bless Me, And hope that friends we will always be. BUT – if someday that is not true. THEN – God Bless me and the Hell with you.!! {;-D
Just love it.
I have seen a great saying years ago in an Irish shop in port Jefferson n.y. it was about a married couple going through hard times .It was a plaque and I have gone to many Irish shops and no one seems to have it. It was about 18.00-20.00 us dollars.Please let me know if u have anything pertaining to this subject. Thank you Marie
My favourite saying is the following:-
Ten Commandments for the Irish
Thou shalt be loyal to family, friends and faith,
Thou shalt keep thy Irish eyes a-smilin.
Thou shalt shy away from Blarney.
Thou shalt honour they Motherland.
Thou shalt see the Trinity in every Shamrock.
Thou shalt halve each potatoe out of love
Thou shalt be kind to wee ones everywhere.
Thou shalt be generous with blessings, songs and stories.
Thou shalt follow every rainbbow.
Thou shalt rest easy in the hollow of God’s hand.
My favorite is,”everything will be alright in the end and if it’s not, it isn’t the end!”
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