A couple shipped a box of Irish dirt all the way to America so their newborn daughter could take her first steps on Irish soil.
Michael Murphy and wife Nikki asked pals in Tipperary to scoop up a box of dirt and grass so they could dip little Vivienne’s feet in it when she arrived.
Michael, 37, was born in Hillsboro, Illinois, but grew up hearing all about his Irish roots from his dad, as his grandparents hailed from Belleek Townland, County Armagh.
READ MORE: Beluga whale splashes smoker puffing on cig in aquarium
- Advertisement -
“Dipping her feet in the soil was so exciting and meaningful,” Michael, who lives in Highland, Illinois, told What’s the Jam.
“I have always been fascinated with our Irish roots.
“I deeply revere the Irish people and their history and how much it shapes their modern day political and social attitudes.
“I admire the effort that has been made to revive the Irish language that was once banned.
“Irish culture is something that has always resonated with me.
- Advertisement -
“We celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day in our home.
“You do not have to be 100% Irish to see that and to feel that and want to experience it yourself.
“Nikki and I would love to take her to the banks of the broad majestic River Shannon and to dip her feet in its water and possibly catch a few rowboats as they glide across as Shane MacGowan would have wanted.
- Advertisement -
“We know where our original family plot is in Belleek Townland in County Armagh and would love to visit.
“In the end, for us, it’s about teaching her to respect other cultures and to teach her about the wider world beyond her own corner of it.
“It’s about open mindedness and respect.
“It will take her far in life and that’s what we, as parents, hope for.”
Proud mum Nikki, 31, filmed the moment and posted it online, where it racked up almost five million views.
Michael added: “My family appreciate the unique nature of the gift and the respect that we have for our roots.
“You have the Debbie downers and people who need a hug.
“As a proud dad, I send them a father’s hug wherever they are.
“The reaction online has been largely positive.
“People seem to appreciate engaged and involved parents that carve out something different for their children in this age of screens and technology.”
Viewers flooded the clip with messages.
One commenter said: “This is so beautiful. I love being Irish.”
Another wrote: “As an Irish descendant, I’m kind of upset that we don’t have a box of Irish soil.”
A third added: “We did something like this at my nan’s grave. We replaced the English soil with Irish above the casket.”
A fourth person chipped in: “People don’t get how important this is for him because it’s not their heritage.
“Everyone is so quick to place judgement but every culture has their traditions.
“Every family also makes new ones. Plus your little shamrock is adorable.”
