Millions of people across the world, whether Irish, Irish-descended or otherwise, dress up in green and partake in festivities to mark St. Patrick's Day. Marked annually on March 17, this year the day falls on Thursday.

It is an annual feast day that honors Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland and one of Christianity's most famous figures. The holiday is celebrated with corned beef, beer and parades.

Here are some quotes and blessings to share with friends and family on this Irish holiday, courtesy countryliving.com.

Quotes:

  • "Being Irish, he had an abiding sense of tragedy, which sustained him through temporary periods of joy." –William Butler Yeats
  • "Being Irish, I always had this love of word." –Kenneth Branagh
  • "Love is never defeated, and I could add, the history of Ireland proves it." — Pope John Paul II
  • "That's what the holidays are for -- for one person to tell the stories and another to dispute them. Isn't that the Irish way?" – Lara Flynn Boyle
  • "Being Irish is very much a part of who I am. I take it everywhere with me." – Colin Farrell

Blessings:

  • "An old Irish recipe for longevity: Leave the table hungry. Leave the bed sleepy. Leave the bar thirsty."
  • "If God sends you down a stony path, may he give you strong shoes."
  • "May your blessings outnumber the shamrocks that grow, and may trouble avoid you wherever you go."
  • "May the Good Lord take a liking to you ... but not too soon!"
  • "Always remember to forget the friends that proved untrue. But never forget to remember those that have stuck by you."
  • "May you live as long as you want, and never want as long as you live."
  • "May the Irish hills caress you.. May her lakes and rivers bless you… May the luck of the Irish enfold you… May the blessings of Saint Patrick behold you."
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Quebec City St. Patrick’s Day Parade 2010. Creative Commons
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