YOU CAN’T HAIL from a country which has brought the world some of the most revered music, literature and poetry, and not have at least one sentimental bone in your body.
You might hold it together for the vast majority of your time, but there will always be at least one thing that will tip you directly over the edge.
Whether it was a social movement or a sporting event, some things warrant goosebumps, and that’s just the way it is.
We mean, remember…
1. Riverdance
It may have been 24 years ago now, but the introduction of Riverdance at the interval of the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest is easily one of the most recognisable moments in Irish television history.
While we turn a blind eye to the questionable outfits sported by hosts, Gerry Ryan and Cynthia Ni Mhurchú, we remember that drumbeat, Jean Butler’s solo, Michael Flatley’s entrance, and then, dear God, that finale.
Excuse us a moment.
2. Yes campaign victory 2015
After a long emotional campaign, the Irish people voted in favour of same-sex marriage in May 2015.
As worded landed on Saturday May 23 that the Yes vote had prevailed by 62 to 38 per cent, thousands gathered in the courtyard of Dublin Castle to celebrate the milestone moment in Irish history.
3. Irish fans at the 2016 Euros.
Christ, if those lads didn’t rep it for Ireland.
Whether they were cleaning up for the boys in green, standing up for the French police or – bear with us here – singing lullabies to little babies, the Irish fans were the true heroes of the Euros 2016.
Take a bow.
4. An Post ad snowman
While the Coca-Cola commercial dominates talk in the lead-up to Christmas, we know that the real sign of Christmas is the An Post ad.
From the classic track to the soothing tone of the narrator, we’d take An Post over Coca-Cola any day.
And so what if it means we’re fighting back tears ten times a day during Christmas week?
5. Robbie Keane’s equaliser against Germany
It was the 2002 World Cup. It was Ireland versus Germany. It was injury-time.
And Robbie Keane scored an equaliser.
And everyone, rightfully, lost their bloody reason.
6. ESB ‘Going Home’ ad
Starring a very sauve Alan Hughes, this ad was broadcast in the late 80s and early 90s in Ireland.
And you’re lying if you say it doesn’t make you nostalgic for Alan’s fictional home, his on-screen mammy and his uber-cosy electric blanket.
Even now, we get goosebumps at the opening lines of the classic Dusty Springfield track.
7. The National Anthem
OK, so it may not be as welcome if it’s signalling the end of the night in whatever Godforsaken club you may have found yourself, but aside from that, it’s hard not to feel a frisson at the open bars.
Whether it’s before an away game, at the beginning of the All-Ireland final or the sight of President Michael D Higgins joining in at his inauguration, Amhrán na bhFiann will always end in goosebumps.
8. Touching down in Dublin Airport
Whether you were only away for a boozy weekend in Brighton or returning after years spent abroad, little beats the first sighting of the Poolbeg Chimneys as you begin your descent towards Dublin Airport
Bonus points if you’re arriving home at night.
