What makes you feel lucky?

Saint Patrick's Day is one of the most widely celebrated festivities around the world, recognized not only as a cultural and religious holiday in Ireland but also as an occasion for global communities to embrace Irish heritage. Originating in honour of Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, the celebration has transcended borders, symbolizing themes of resilience, luck, and cultural pride. Given its significance, we at GCF took the opportunity to engage our students in a meaningful exploration of this tradition.

Led by the Language Arts Department, the activity was designed with the intention of fostering international-mindedness and cultural awareness. By immersing students in the symbols and traditions of Saint Patrick’s Day—such as shamrocks, rainbows, and pots of gold—they not only expanded their vocabulary but also deepened their understanding of how different cultures celebrate identity and history.

Our 10th and 11th-grade students took an active role in guiding the exercise, introducing key terms, leading discussions, and encouraging their peers to reflect on what it truly means to be lucky. Through thought-provoking conversations, students explored luck not just as chance or material fortune, but as gratitude for the meaningful aspects of their lives—family, friendships, opportunities, and personal growth.

The culmination of this activity was a vibrant and heartfelt mural, where students visually represented what makes them feel fortunate. It was inspiring to see the depth of their reflections, as many recognized and appreciated aspects of their lives that they may not always acknowledge. This exercise not only enriched their linguistic and cultural knowledge but also nurtured a sense of gratitude and perspective, reinforcing the idea that fortune is often found in the everyday moments we sometimes take for granted.

By celebrating Saint Patrick’s Day in this reflective and educational manner, we encouraged our students to embrace cultural diversity, think beyond their own experiences, and develop a broader, more appreciative worldview.

By the Language Arts Department.