Elizabeth Bowers

Upon arriving in Dublin this September, it was difficult not to be impressed by the beauty and serenity of both the Irish people and the Irish countryside. Having an uncle who served as an American diplomat in Ireland, I knew that the Emerald Isle wasn't always as beautiful and peaceful as it is today. The arduous Irish Peace Process is still far from over; but, several politicians and religious figures have made valiant strides to end the fighting between both countries this past decade. Being a student studying in Dublin, it is often easy to forget of the troubles that once plagued this land, namely the bitter battle between unionists and nationalists or as some might say Protestants and Catholics. Nevertheless, we were all reminded on Friday, November 24, of the sinister hatred between the two aforementioned groups that still brews underneath Ireland's seemingly beautiful surface.

Pride. After spending time in Ireland, this trait can be clearly recognized in its people. Pop culture often stereotypes the Irish as stubborn and proud. While not all Irishmen possess these traits in every aspect of their lives, there are several super ordinate goals that the Irish people take pride in achieving together.