Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam Sinéad in your final resting place in Co. Wicklow… in her case nothing compares to Bray.
The Irish, and the world, say their final farewells to the pop powerhouse today in the seaside resort south of Dublin.
It is a town Sinéad O’Connor and our family had in common and one she shared with mine and yours.
Because first and foremost Sinéad was a mother and would welcome all the young people of Bray.
And neighbouring towns such as our old stomping ground over the Bray Head, Greystones, to her home.
And in the case of my own daughter it would be a full wrap-around cuddle.
Sinéad’s people
Sinéad loved the people of Bray where she lived for 15 years and they loved her back.
And despite her fame she got to live her life as any singer in a smalltown in Ireland would, celebrated for herself but never smothered.
It is poignant then that Sinéad’s final procession starts at the Harbour Bar, one of Bray’s great institutions.
With its warren of rooms, recreated Irish cottage living room among them with artefacts and curious cats.
Sinead will then head along the seafront, a lyrical backdrop for someone so ethereal.
Bray Seafront retains its olde resort feel with its shingle beach, promenade, amusement arcades and authentic bars and restaurants.
A modern addition to the charms which bring Dublin day trippers south SEA LIFE Bray Aquarium will occupy even the most active kiddies.
Head up to the fields
For the more active then continue your walk upwards and over Bray Head.
Stare downwards and you’ll see Bray and its front and your back and the Irish sea and its bird life all around.
While on occasion you might even see a lonely goat above you so yodelaye to your heart content.
The Southern Cross is the peak of your walk with its crucifix which reminds you of ancient Ireland’s connections with the land.
Mother Earth is there too in all its glory with Bray commemorating Sinead with lettering marked into the land.
A train runs through a tunnel built by Isambard Kingdom Brunel carrying passengers to the DART’s terminus.
Stones of destiny
Take a 45-minute trip from Dublin’s Tara Street station, near O’Connell Street.
And bookend your day trip with a Guinness at the Beach House in the newly repurposed harbour.
Mark too the murals on Bray Station commemorating those who have added to Bray and Irish life.
A space is open for the spiritual voice of Ireland.
So as we reflect on how all the flowers in your back yard died mama when you went away Sinead.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam Sinéad and nothing compares to Bray.