Clonakilty Agricultural Show

We had a great family outing to the Clonakilty Agricultural Show last Sunday afternoon.  I'm told that we had exceptional weather (it nearly always rains and this year we only had a light shower).  It was all very impressive, yes the displays were great and the exhibitions and the stalls and stands were really very good, but what impressed me most was the community spirit and just the sheer togetherness of everyone.

People of varying backgrounds and interests were there together and all really enjoying themselves, the winners were congratulated the losers commiserated and it just all 'worked'.

This might all sound strange to those who are familiar with this (and other) shows, let me explain:  I grew up in a community which had strong links to the land and I remember shows in my childhood years that were just like the one here in Clonakilty (my Step Father used to almost single-handedly organise them).  But there was not the same community spirit, people wanted the show but only if they didn't have to do much to help etc etc., you know the story and that's why that particular show stopped many years ago.  I hope and pray that doesn't happen here and I honestly don't think it will, the community spirit is too strong.  Anyway I just suppose that I came across something very precious last Sunday and when I come across something that is precious I naturally want to protect it.  But I know that there is nothing to fear here...  

;~)