Do You Believe in Magic?

If you’ve taken a trip to Ireland, it’s quite likely that you’ve come across Hawthorn or Ash trees covered with colorful ribbons, often protected by stones. What’s the deal you might ask? You my friend, have stumbled upon a fairy tree.

Fairy trees are considered the sacred ground of fairies, also known as sidhe, little people or wee folk. The Irish will go out of their way to leave these trees undisturbed for fear of bad luck if they chop them down. In the hopes of tapping into the magic and good luck the trees are said to bring, many people who visit fairy trees will recite prayers, leave behind gifts, or tie ribbons on the trees. It’s an enchanting sight to see.

As the world slowly starts to re-open, I wonder what magic you look forward to bringing into your life? This past year has given everyone an opportunity to see with 20/20 vision. Given the adversity and agility that’s been required of you, what are you inspired to start doing, stop doing, and continue doing? I think we can all pull some inspiration from Irish folklore and be attuned to the magic that lies within us and around us. As W.B. Yeats said, “The world is full of magic things, patiently waiting for our senses to grow sharper.”

Image: Wicklow Mountains National Park, Glendalough, Co.

Wicklow, Ireland