'The 1935 Dance Hall Act is still an active law in Ireland today...' Sorry, what?? Absolutely incredible. Wikipedia says the law was introduced in response to 'juvenile sex crimes' (which I will interpret as teen sex). But other effects of the law were that it (still wikipedia): 'disadvantaged many traditional Irish musical activities, such as private house dances and crossroad dances, forcing spontaneous and social music and dance into a controlled and commercialized environment.' Honestly!
What a beautiful, mysterious, and joyful experience to dance among worlds. You dared to jump at the chance and ride with the waves. How wonderful to defy any law against dancing and joy!
According to Dr. Peter Attia for aging well and long into the years...
'For many of his patients, he said, sex, dancing, and living independently are often high on the list. “To be able to dance is actually a very complicated physical and cognitive task as you age,” Dr. Attia said.'
So magical Margaret! I think the Irish have a special understanding on how to dance between two worlds of reality and mystery.
Thanks Kathy, although I'm not sure we have a monopoly on that! But I love a bit of magic ;-)
Yes, I won't grant the Irish a monopoly but the love of magic seems to be deeply rooted in the culture :)
You just have to know where to look 😉
I can feel the joy and excitement. The mystery as delicious as the dancing. ❤️
Thank you Patricia!
magnificent, Margaret. from your delicious descriptions, i can imagine being there.
Thank you Janis!
Loved this!
Thanks Karena.
'The 1935 Dance Hall Act is still an active law in Ireland today...' Sorry, what?? Absolutely incredible. Wikipedia says the law was introduced in response to 'juvenile sex crimes' (which I will interpret as teen sex). But other effects of the law were that it (still wikipedia): 'disadvantaged many traditional Irish musical activities, such as private house dances and crossroad dances, forcing spontaneous and social music and dance into a controlled and commercialized environment.' Honestly!
(A beautiful piece, Margaret.)
Thank you Tash! And yes, isn't it bizarre - that urge to control and erase the small pleasures and joys.
Very bizarre!
Your story captivated me Margaret! Thank you for sharing your experience along with a bit of history. 💜
Thank you Gail!
What a beautiful, mysterious, and joyful experience to dance among worlds. You dared to jump at the chance and ride with the waves. How wonderful to defy any law against dancing and joy!
Thank you Joann! 💚
I learned so much from your post, Margaret. Thank you. Dance and Joy! :)
Thank you Julie, and let's have more of both!
Yes! :)
According to Dr. Peter Attia for aging well and long into the years...
'For many of his patients, he said, sex, dancing, and living independently are often high on the list. “To be able to dance is actually a very complicated physical and cognitive task as you age,” Dr. Attia said.'
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/07/well/aging-longevity-peter-attia.html?searchResultPosition=1
Here's to all of that Lisa!
I confess I am insanely jealous of the Irish magic. We are far too dour, technical, and ambitious here in the States. We miss out on so much!
Cindy, I am so looking forward to sharing time with you here in a couple of weeks time!
Dancing, singing, making music outside is always extra-magical, especially at night. I love the little anti-fairy token. Never be without one!
Thanks Rosie, never without that wee token. Drawing magic towards me…