Week 13

I got to Ireland on the first of June. The ferry crossing from Cherbourg to Rosslare was nice and easy, not too much choppiness. I actually found it quite nice, I lucked out and got a fairly clear sky that night, so I could see the stars (I sails by the stars). THe sun rose over the ocean and it was gorgeous.
We arrived at 11:45 Irish time. I managed to get through immigration easily enough, but something sinister lurked there. When I was waiting for my train at the station (a ten minute walk from the harbour) I noticed something odd about the stamp on my pass. It was dated the first of May. They had forgotten to switch over the month on the stamp.
I ran back to the harbour (the time being 12:40 and my train was leaving at 12:55)and managed to find somebody to help me. I was informed that it was a very specific person that had to fix the mistake and that he was on his way back. At 12:50 he arrived, leafed through my pass, seemed very unconcerned and then made a hand written notation that simply read "first of June". A very official scribble. I ran with my pack back to the train, managed to get on, just as they were closing the doors. No one said travelling would be easy.
I spent most of last week in Cork, drinking in the sights and smells and tastes. I took several walks and saw a good bit of the coast as well as the famous Blarney Castle and the stone at the top that is rumored to grant one who kisses it eloquence. I don't know if it will work, but I gave it a shot all the same. The country side here is similar to Kansas in a lot of ways. In county Cork at least. I am in Killarney now, in county Kerry. Not so much like Kansas.
There are lovely mountains that I am looking foward to climbing, nature trails, waterfalls and old stone castles. There is also an old town that is busy as of late because of Bank holiday weekend, as well as a corresponding Gaelic Football match (think aussie rules). I have been travelling with a nice Irish guy named Vincent, who has differing views from mine, but I respect him for who he is. We have had some good conversations and one or two good nights (wink).
That does lead me to a more serious note, the alchaholism here really is a big problem. People sometimes have so little hope that they only wish to dull themselves to the pain of living. It has been both sad and sobering to see this and how it takes one's life away. These people, like everyone, really need Jesus. To feel His love and know that he can satisfy their thirst. Please be praying that I will share this with the folks here, and that I wouldn't succumb to the temptation to drink to excess.
I will be in county Kerry for another few days and then I think I'll see what Tralee is like. After that, maybe Limmerick and Galway. There is so much to do, so little time and so much oppertunity. I am looking forward to exploring this nice little Island.
I continue to miss you all and remain your friend,
-Samwise Greenhill