As you probably know, Saint Patrick’s Day is quickly approaching. Being a proud, half-Irish woman, I know that I probably didn’t let you forget about that since, well, late December. I know that my excitement may seem over-enthusiastic because I get to celebrate my heritage, so thank you for being the Patrick to my Spongebob and putting up with me.

Yesterday, I heard someone say that this holiday has turned into nothing but a drunken circus and that people shouldn’t celebrate it. I don’t know who they were, nor do I know what their ethnic background is. It made me stop and wonder for a moment if I was wrong in celebrating the holiday in this way. It’s always been a big deal in my family. My cousins, aunts and uncles all get together so that we may celebrate family and friendship.

What’s wrong with that? Absolutely nothing! If there was anything I learned growing up, it was that the people in our lives are worth celebrating. There may not be a need for a holiday to do so, but I can’t name one person who would turn it down, either. Even if you aren’t Irish and don’t know much about the tradition behind it, you can still celebrate and learn. My family and I always welcomed people of different backgrounds, religions and traditions to celebrate with us for every holiday. So why do we have to exclude people?

Maybe some people are just bitter and want to bring others down. My friend, I want you to know that, despite what anyone says, the phrase “Everyone is Irish on Saint Paddy’s Day” is a true statement. Though there aren’t many who would comment on such things, I’ve already heard a few people who would. It’s nothing more than people trying to bring others down. However, also note that if you call it “Saint Patty’s Day” instead of “Saint Paddy’s Day,” I will have to hunt you down and give you a lesson on how wrong you are.

These are trivial things to worry about, and it’s best to just put them behind us at the end of the day. I sincerely hope that you’ll join me for a drink, even if it’s in spirit. Even if you’re not of legal drinking age, I can’t think of one person who doesn’t enjoy shamrock shakes either! Everyone can be jolly and make merry as long as we ignore the words of those trying to bring our happiness down.

So, never be ashamed to throw on a green shirt, go out and have a little fun. As long as you stay safe and responsible, it doesn’t matter what your heritage may be. Even if it’s in spirit, I hope you’ll join me for a drink (if you’re of legal drinking age). If you aren’t, a shamrock shake? Have a good time and be Irish for a day. After all, not all of us are lucky enough to be Irish all year round!