The realities and impact of famine run deep in our history and in our national psyche. The people of Ireland have always responded when regions have been at risk of famine, doing as much as possible to prevent famine.  When other countries have suffered famine - Biafra, Ethiopia, Sudan, Somalia, etc. - the people of Ireland raised money for food and humanitarian aid.  Motivated by compassion and a deep sense of our collective humanity, the Irish have consistently been at the forefront to raise awareness around the conditions attributing to famine and food insecurity.  Although we’re a small population, we have little difficulty in making our voices heard, challenging those in positions of power to make decisions for the benefit of all.  Yet, unfortunately, our voices continue to be needed. 

I’m at my keyboard six days after the people of Israel suffered a horrendous attack in which at least 1,200 civilians were brutally murdered. The Israeli response has been swift and harsh with estimates of 1,300 inhabitants of Gaza killed. By the time this article is posted those numbers will most certainly increase.

I landed in Dublin in 2018, excitedly anticipating my new life here. I was sad to leave behind my family, friends, and the country I’d known and loved for decades. But I was ready for this—I had dreamed of living here for years. And though I love it, there have been many challenges and surprises that arose during my past five years here. Visas, banking, taxes, housing, transportation, terminology/slang, procedures, cultural nuances, food, and many more things were all new or different to me. Navigating so many new things at once can make you tired, frustrated, annoyed, and beyond. And even though I am happy here, I can get homesick for all things familiar. A place where I know I belong, and everything is natural.