The blessing

Day 2 – write about one of the most wonderful experiences in your life

Date:  Sometime in July 1987, age 11.

Setting:  The parlour of my grandparents farmhouse, just outside the town of Coagh, Northern Ireland.

Occasion:  A blessing from my grandfather.

During the summer before grade 7, our family took a 6 week summer vacation to the UK.  The first 3 weeks were spent in Northern Ireland visiting my Dad’s family and the next 3 weeks were spent in England visiting my Mom’s family.  Shortly before leaving Ireland, my dad arranged to have each of his children blessed by my grandfather.

I remember hanging out in the family room waiting for my turn, while my older brother was in the parlour with granddad.  When it was my turn, I was called into the parlour with granddad and I remember him gently placing his hands on my head while he prayed a prayer of blessing over me.  I don’t remember the words, but still today I can remember the sound of his voice as he prayed for me. 

This experience; that of receiving a blessing from my paternal grandfather left an indelible mark on my life; the impact of which will only be fully known in eternity.