Amid the madness that is Spring Break, this year there lies another holiday, St. Patrick's Day — otherwise known as "St. Patty's Day," "Wear anything and everything green day," "International Blackout drunk day" — OK, well maybe not those last two...
However, in a way, I am right (modest I know). Everyone is entitled to their fun, whether it be alcohol enhanced or not - and I am definitely not chastising anybody. Yet, when did St. Patrick's day, and other holidays of culture (Drinko de Mayo, I mean, Cinco de Mayo), become all about the most festive mixed drink one can create without vomiting or chugging as much beer or tequila as possible? Have these, and so many other cultures, not given the world more than just an excuse for a hangover?
Now I did my research, and had my qualms lightened a tad — a tad, I said.
As for the issue of March 17th, there is a little history to the... indulgence, we can call it. I encourage you all to check out these interesting sites for more in depth info, but allow me to summarize. We all know the tale of St. Patrick, a citizen of Great Britain, turned slave of Ireland, turned priest of great Britain after an escape, and then the returning savior of Ireland. Patrick returned to his country of enslavement in order to spread Christianity across the traditionally polytheistic land. Note: He did not banish snakes from Ireland - metaphors people.
However, as history has continued, the day of Patrick's death has become a celebration of all his good deeds, and thus the country of Ireland as well. In the traditional Christian celebration of this Saint, Christians who are busy amidst their Lenten tithing and sacrificing were able to forgo it and indulge in anything and everything they gave up. Eat, Drink, and Be Merry, as it were.
However, as Christian religion is no longer the driving force of America, the meaning is lost but the act has remained. Today, green tutus, shamrock everything, and alcohol have become abundant instead. With the normal figure for Christianity in the U.S around 70%, yet many not being practicing Christians, the validity of such celebrations remains a curious case.
As for Cinco de Mayo, the Fourth of July, and all other holidays that have become centered on "brewskies, boobies, and bros," they are a result of the loss of culture - or in some cases the misunderstanding of culture. In half a century or so, will people understand March 17th is not International Green Day or Go Shamrock Day, and that Cinco de Mayo is in fact not Mexico's Independence Day?
I surely hope as everyone chants their "Shots! Shots! Shots!" ballad in their best LMFAO voice, they remember just exactly what that day means in history. Happy St. Patrick's Day, everybody!
