Pilgrimage to Ireland

According to legend, Lough Gur is one of the major entry points to Tír-na-Nóg. It was here that the legends of Aine, the Earl of Desmond, and their son, Gerald, unfold. Because of the Earl’s breaking of a geise (taboo), Gerald was turned into a goose when he touched the water. He disappeared on Garrett Island in the lake. Other legends say that Gerald lives in the under-lake world awaiting the time when he can return to the world of humans. He is said to be the phantom rider on a white horse that circles the lake in the moonlight every seven years.

The swan was a constant reminder of the children of Lir.

Lough Gur, lake of ancient legends of Aine, and Gerald
nestled between rugged hills that veil secret caves.

Dark and moody in the rain, under bright skies you sparkle,
and mirror Lir’s children who glide across your surface.

In moonsheen the rider on his white steed circles your shore
seeking entrance to the castle beneath your waters.

Voices whisper on the wind of noble deeds and promises
that have fallen through memory and passed from time.

Your waters are clear and inviting, yet they hide the door
to Tír-na-Nóg and hold safe your many secrets.

I whiled away my last full day in Ireland at the lake. In the afternoon I reluctantly headed back to my car — it was time to prepare my re-entry to everyday life.

One thing I noticed on pilgrimage was how time seemed to flow differently. I would have thought that the long and full days would have flown by as usually happens during a good holiday. This was truly a time of being betwixt and between. It was similar to how I remember childhood with days stretching long and no need to hurry – time was not rushing away from me.

Pilgrimage changes a person – of course, that’s part of what it’s about. Before leaving Ireland I could already feel transformation occurring at a deep level. Having set foot on this land, the land of my ancestors, this land that is so spiritual and enchanted, I will forever see through different eyes. My awareness has expanded and my soul deepened. The beauty and peace I found there is something I shall always carry with me. I can close my eyes and see the meadows or windswept rocks and feel the magic and spirit beneath my feet and in my bones. Now I know how the old magic feels and it will help deepen mine.