Irish are open to other cultures
I agreed with a lot that the French lady had to say -- the fact that most Irish do begrudge others of wealth, happiness and fortune -- we say that ourselves.
It is certainly not a nice trait to have and I, for one, hate it.
As for not wanting to know about any other cultures? Well, I am 30 years old and have a HUGE interest in many different cultures, and most people I know have.
I am currently studying for my degree in media and there is a lot of cultural studies involved, anthropology and psychology which I'm enjoying.
Mixing with different nationalities excites me and thrills me, the thoughts of learning a different language drives me (French and Italian are up there). I even try to read Polish in the shops on Gardiner Street to take an interest!
I know many Irish people who feel the same as me, who are not caught up in the 'history' and 'Danny Boy' while moaning about what those English put us through and those 'bleedin' foreigners'!
I have found most of this lady's letter quite offensive to be honest. Then I read that she is married to a Paddy! Now, I continue to read ... hmmm... that must be nice being married to someone who hates where you're from and everything about it.
I am all for someone who has the guts to come out and express their feelings and opinions, but this was just downright bitter.
I have met many different nationalities and they have expressed how they feel about certain Irish people. I agree a lot of the time -- in fact nearly all of the time. It's unfortunate that we have a bad drinking culture, and indeed, a lot of people giving us a bad name both abroad and at home.
But regarding this lady's letter and how she ponders on ignorance, maybe she should realise that not all Irish people think or behave in the way that she is insinuating.
One thing I have learned throughout my 30 years on this planet, is that the mind is like a parachute, it only works when it's open, and you my French lady, really need to open yours.
Rita-Marie Lawlor,
Photographer and filmmaker,
Ballyfermot, Dublin 10
