The Character of a Celtic Person: You Be the Judge of Whether We Are Good

Are you a good judge of character?

Being a modern Celtic person isn’t just about where you’re from, it’s about who you are, what you value, and how you connect to the world around you. For me, the essence of Celtic identity lies in honoring the history and traditions of the Celtic nations, our places like Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, Brittany, the Isle of Man, and even Galicia and Asturias, while blending those deep roots with the realities of the modern world.

A modern Celtic person carries a respect for heritage. It’s not about clinging to the past but keeping it alive in meaningful ways. Whether that’s speaking Irish or Welsh, preserving traditional music, or celebrating ancient festivals like Samhain or Imbolc, it’s about keeping the spirit of those who came before us alive. For me, it’s in the food I cook, the football team I follow and the stories I tell, leading into the pride I feel in being part of something bigger.

But being Celtic isn’t just about history but it’s about the land. Celts have always had a bond with the natural world, and that connection remains strong today. A modern Celtic person respects the land, whether it’s through sustainable practices or just taking the time to appreciate the beauty of a rural landscape. I often find myself inspired by the rugged coastlines, misty hills, and vibrant greens that are so iconic of Celtic regions. They’re a reminder of how deeply rooted we are to our surroundings and how important it is to protect them.

Creativity is another hallmark of the Celtic spirit. From ancient bards and poets to modern musicians and artists, Celts have always found ways to express themselves. For me, that creativity often comes out in the kitchen, blending tradition with innovation to create something new that still feels deeper than me. It’s about finding that balance between honoring the old ways and making them relevant to today.

Hospitality is another trait that defines us. Celts are known for their warmth, humor, and generosity. A modern Celtic person values community, family, and connection. Whether it’s a gathering around a table or just the small, everyday ways we look out for each other, that sense of togetherness is something I strive to carry forward.

And then there’s resilience. Celtic history is full of struggle, battles for independence, efforts to preserve language and culture, and more. Modern Celts embody that strength. It’s about standing firm in what you believe in, even when the odds are stacked against you. For me, that means staying true to my identity and values, no matter where life takes me.

Language is another piece of the puzzle. So many modern Celts are working to revive and preserve their native tongues, whether it’s Irish, Welsh, or Breton. It’s a fight to keep those languages alive, and it’s inspiring to see so many people dedicating themselves to that cause. For me, even using a few words of Irish in my daily life is a small way of staying connected to that part of my heritage.

Food and drink are, of course, a massive part of Celtic culture, and modern Celts embrace this with pride. Traditional dishes made with local, seasonal ingredients tell a story of the land and the people who live there. For me, cooking is one of the most tangible ways to keep that connection alive. It’s not just about eating, it’s about celebrating our history and sharing it with others.

Spirituality, too, plays a role. Whether it’s rooted in Christianity, ancient Celtic beliefs, or a blend of both, there’s often a deep sense of connection to the land, the seasons, and the cycles of life. For me, it’s about being mindful of those connections and letting them guide how I live and work.

Finally, being a modern Celtic person means being a global citizen while holding onto local pride. We live in a connected world, but that doesn’t mean we lose who we are. If anything, it’s an opportunity to share the richness of Celtic culture with others, whether that’s through food, music, language, or simply the way we live.

At the end of the day, being Celtic is about balance. It’s about holding onto the past while embracing the future. It’s about connection to the land, to the people around us, and to ourselves. And it’s about carrying forward a legacy that’s not just about history but about who we are and who we strive to be. For me, that’s what being Celtic means, and it’s a legacy I’m proud to be a part of.