“I was the youngest of six in an IRISH home.My mother, Maureen, passed away when I was ten, leaving my FATHER, Paddy Downey, a devoted SCHOOLMASTER, to raise us. He taught us to love reading, find KINDNESS, and help others.

My father was my greatest SUPPORTER. The night before I left for acting school in London, he said, ‘This is your dream, Roma. You must follow it.’ He pointed to the FULL MOON. ‘This moon will shine on you and on me, wherever you go. Whenever you miss me, just look at that moon; you’ll see the message I’ve left... how much I love you.’

Months later, I called to share my excitement about coming home. “Your room will be ready, darlin’. I’ll be warming your favorite SHEETS... the YELLOW FLANNEL,’ he replied.

I longed to share my challenges with Father, knowing he would inspire me. I wanted to tell him a quote from Van Gogh that I’d learned: ‘I no longer want to be the painter. I want to be the paint.’ I knew he’d love that.

Tragically, before I could return, my brother called: ‘Dad had a massive heart attack.’ My HEART BROKE; my father was gone.

For his memorial, it was bittersweet to reenter my OLD IRISH HOME. But, a Godwink greeted me as I entered the kitchen. The YELLOW FLANNEL sheets were hanging by the STOVE. I pressed them to my cheek, embracing his final act of love.

Now, during uncertain times, I gaze at the moon, finding comfort in its glow and a reminder of his enduring love.

I love you, Dad.”

Roma

•••

Louise and I know of no one who doesn’t love ROMA DOWNEY. In no small part, it’s her Irish brogue and charm that we first are drawn to… and her beauty… in and out.

As one of America’s finest examples of the best of the Irish… around St Patrick's Day is a wonderful time to LOVE EVERYTHING IRISH, isn’t it?

Good wishes for green Godwinks!

SQuire