Month: Oct 2025

Uncategorized

I used to invite all of my American friends and family to Ireland — a place they adored for its warmth, art, culture, music and timeless beauty. Watching them fall in love with this land always filled me with pride. My parents and I enjoyed the music at Gogarty’s pub on their annual visits. But now, my heart aches. The Ireland I once shared so freely feels different. The air of openness and welcome seems to be fading. I still love this country deeply, but I can no longer invite people here without a quiet word of caution, without explaining that the landscape – both cultural and moral is changing before our eyes. It’s not anger that I feel, but sorrow. Sorrow for a place I’ve loved nearly half my life, and for the simple joy of sharing it without hesitation.

J.K. Lunden @Jklunden