For the love of Suaimhneas {soo-iv-ness}
This word. This word deeply rich in meaning. As is the case with many words in the Irish language, it describes a state of being, a feeling. There is no one single definition and as is also the case with many Irish words, the context in which it is used can have an influence on the exact interpretation you align with.
I hope that these words can convey the feeling that ‘Suaimhneas’ {soo-iv-ness} describes:
Quietude, contentment, calm, tranquility.
For me it evokes and describes comfort, peace, and a soothing feeling, which can exist in a physical place. It captures a sense of stillness and deep rest which can exist within. Ten years ago we sold up our first home and moved to our new house in the Irish countryside. A place between numerous towns and villages, surrounded by trees, hills, and lakes. Our home looks out onto a hill where the sun sets. The house itself needed work. It is a lifelong project, and the longer we are here, the more we realise that to be the case. But at its essence has always been suaimhneas.
The land that the house sits on is now awakening, and the multitude of trees we have planted over the last few years are starting to awaken again after their winter sleep. The bricks and mortar of the house are just one part of this space. In reality it is the way that the surrounding nature, in its wild, untamed, simplicity, holds the house, that creates the sense of suaimhneas that we experience here.
It is here that I am still, here where I can rest, and here where I can connect with myself on the deepest level that I have ever experienced.
The last year has been a lot. I fell apart and pieced myself back together in this space. I confronted myself and succumbed to myself in so many ways. I started to rebuild. Suaimhneas has never been more apt as a name for our home than the last year. It has held me and helped me.
I hope my writings here will carry a little suaimhneas from me to you.
Thank you for being here,
Deborah xx