Usha, Courtmac and the Tri-Colours
As a certain couple flew in to Greenland with ownership intentions for President, “You all know Who”, Courtmacsherry held its breath. What if the big plane missed Greenland and landed nearby? To ensure that the V.s knew they were in Ireland tri-colours were much in evidence. It seemed as if every pole and tree had multiple Green, White and Orange flags.
Local insecurity was understandable following an attempted name change of their native place by a RTAI committee member. Local feelings found expression in crude verse.
Courtmac demands its revenge, For an unsought exotic name change Content with its Sherry, Who is this Shelly? Thunderous rain on all walkers our pledge
With the named culprit banished to Scotland the thunderous rain was held back but replaced by a passive-aggressive mist which robbed the sea views of some of their magic.
The seamless blend of regular walkers, “Long-time-no-sees” and the new walkers worked as ever. The RTAI has found a happy formula that works and willing able members to deliver it to their fellows. It was great to welcome a new walk leader in Miriam Murphy, who introduced us to yet more hidden treasures and pathways.
Broad Strand was deserted as we walked its length and we used the shelter of Blind Strand for our picnic. The public notice on entering the latter strand “Grab a Picker” thankfully did not lead to any rowdy carry-on. The only other person on that beach came towards us with a large sack of what we guessed was shellfish but he did not try to sell us his wares.
Along narrow paths, hardy primroses seemed to make a special effort to greet us. Even the electric fences held their fire as we scrambled over or under them. Through the eyes of different leaders places yield different aspects of themselves. Some older walkers could not but notice how once modest inclines have grown steeper. While the social aspects of our walks are obvious, opportunities for a little chosen solitude along the way is possible without having to make a fuss.
We were led willingly to “The Golden Pheasant”. The wide menu and its presentation appealed first to the eye, the taste buds and indeed the pocket. Those who chose brown rather white bread were accused of “virtue-signaling” in this secular age a new and serious “sin”. Thankfully no unsought extra spoons arrived with tasty desserts! The sharp-witted people at our table saw through half-hearted offers to share and recognised the sham gestures they were.
A totally unselfish exception was made when, in the interests of research, Health & Safety etc,, a portion of Martin’s dessert was taken. It was deemed safe for him to consume the rest!
Thoughts of Patrick Keohane (1879-1950), having seen his monument, lingered. A man of heroic endurance sprang from this place. Let us salute him.
P.s. Rumours persist in Courtmac that a plebiscite to change its name to Clare-Mac-Sherry will take place on February 30th next.
Seán Ó Callanáin
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