The first one involves the shamrock. When Saint Patrick arrived in Ireland, he immediately set out trying to convert the Celtic pagans. He had lived and worked there before, so he probably knew the significance of the number three to them. So, in turn, he picked a shamrock, the common three-leafed clover that grew there, and used it to explain to them the Holy Trinity.
The second legend involves demon blackbirds. Sound odd, aye? So, Saint Patrick spent the forty days of Lent, the Christian period of fasting or self-denial prior to Easter, on a mountain in co Mayo, now known as Croagh Patrick. During these days, he was harassed by demons disguised as blackbirds. They formed such a thick cloud in the sky, that that sky turned black. Yet, according to this legend, Saint Patrick continued to ring his bell and pray, to proclaim his faith. An angel arrived to answer his prayers, telling him that all his petitions on behalf of the Irish would be granted, and they would retain their Christian faith until Judgement Day.
The third, and final one, speaks of the banishing of the snakes from Ireland. This is as famous as the legend of the shamrock. It talks of Saint Patrick driving all of the snakes into the sea where they then drowned. In many pictures, Saint Patrick is depicted as standing on a mound of snakes, obviously conquering the snakes.
Another thing that I love about St. Patrick's Day is the food! I adore corned beef and cabbage, and I think that everyone should eat it on St. Patrick's Day. It is part of the atmosphere and St. Patrick's Day would not be complete without it!
Personally, I love all Irish and Scottish events. That may be, however, because I myself am Scotts-Irish. I love to celebrate my heritage, but I also enjoy all of the festivities involved in this holiday. So, be ready to clean up the messes made by your leprechaun, and try and get out of the house to find the end of the rainbow!
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