I have to think that in the United States St. Patrick's Day is simply a lot like Cinco de Mayo: it's much more just an excuse to get drunk and be happy. 99% of people can't tell you anything more than that. I don't think it does anyone any good to over think what St. Patty's Day is about and be upset on principle. Certainly you're deep in the territory of diminishing returns of effort-to-results.
In any case, let's reverse the situation and see if it's fair: 99% of Christians don't bother to over think the pre-christianity symbolism and meanings inherent (and *obvious*) in the celebrations of Christmas, Halloween or Easter (of the top of my head). It sure sounds to me like you can have a guilt-free pass to really enjoy the social-lubrication benefits to today's festivities :)
I don't celebrate St. Patrick's day, as I am neither Irish, nor Catholic, nor fond of beer. I may, however, make a vegan haggis for Burn's Night one of these years...
your post gave me chills. you're right, of course. but i have to say it was comforting to go to the local bar (owned by a mexican and canadian husband and wife) and eat nachos and drink green beer. i suppose i was a bit homesick.
earlier in the day, i mentioned to my students that it was st. patrick's day, and they asked what it meant. i was at a loss. they only understand christmas as trees and KFC, so the drinking on st. patrick's day and its catholic history were certainly beyond them. one boy asked if it was a school holiday. when i said no, they promptly forgot it and went back to what they were doing.
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I do not celebrate either, for many of the same reasons. Today I wore pink and gold, and I wrote a story about snakes. ^_^
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In any case, let's reverse the situation and see if it's fair: 99% of Christians don't bother to over think the pre-christianity symbolism and meanings inherent (and *obvious*) in the celebrations of Christmas, Halloween or Easter (of the top of my head). It sure sounds to me like you can have a guilt-free pass to really enjoy the social-lubrication benefits to today's festivities :)
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earlier in the day, i mentioned to my students that it was st. patrick's day, and they asked what it meant. i was at a loss. they only understand christmas as trees and KFC, so the drinking on st. patrick's day and its catholic history were certainly beyond them. one boy asked if it was a school holiday. when i said no, they promptly forgot it and went back to what they were doing.
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