Irish DNA

“We Irish prefer embroideries to plain cloth. To the Irish, memory is a canvas—stretched, primed, and ready for painting on. We love the “story” part of the word “history,” and we love it trimmed out with color and drama, ribbons and bows. Listen to our tunes, observe a Celtic scroll; we always decorate our essence.” ~Frank Delaney

I’ve always been a storyteller. And every year on St. Patrick’s Day, I have an uncanny memory of the lyrics to Irish folk tunes. Strangers have walked up to me in shops and asked if I’m Irish. I knew I had “a little Irish” in me, but didn’t realize how much Irish until I learned more about my ancestral composition through 23andMe. As it turns out, Ireland runs prominently alongside Scotland and England in my DNA, with County Donegal and six other Irish counties topping the map of my profile.

To learn more about your own ancestral heritage, consider gifting yourself with a 23andMe membership. 23andMe uses genotyping to analyze your DNA. The test examines specific locations in your genome that are known to differ between people, then turns your results into personalized genetic reports on everything from detailed ancestry composition to genetic health risks.

There’s something deeply satisfying about knowing your origins. And if you’re as fascinated by the topic as I am, don’t miss the wonderful Finding Your Roots series with Henry Louis Gates, Jr. on PBS.

As the weekend approaches, I wish you a safe and happy St. Pat’s Day and offer this Irish blessing: May the luck of the Irish lead to happiest heights, and the highway you travel be lined with green lights. ~CL