Once upon a long long time ago, before humans came to Ireland the island was inhabited by a magical race called the Dé Danann, they are the ancient Gods of this place. It came about that they decided to go to Rathlin Island to celebrate the coming of the dark days, known as Samhain (Saw-in – Or Halloween as it would become) .
According to their nature, each was having a good time. However dark ominous clouds could be seen over Malin Head and the wind started to rise as it often does around Samhain. So the gods decided to get back to the mainland as Rathlin can be unpleasant in the teeth of a November gale.
All rushed to their boats. Yet, Aengus, the young god of love, did not wish to flee quickly. There was so much to do. But as the clouds darkened, Aengus realised it was time to leave. Alas, there were no boats to spare.
Just then Cernunnos the god of Prosperity passed by in a luxurious boat. Aengus houted, “Cernunnos, could you please take me in your boat?”
“No,” replied Cernunnos, “my boat is full of precious possessions, gold and silver. There is no place for you.”
A little later Clíodhna goddess of beauty and vanity came by in a beautiful boat. Again Aengus shouted, “Could you help me, Clíodhna? I am stranded and need a lift. Please take me with you.”
Clíodhna responded haughtily, “No, I cannot take you with me. My boat will get soiled with your muddy feet.”
Deirdre goddess of Sorrow, passed by after some time. Again, Aengus asked for help. But it was to no avail. “No, I cannot take you with me. I am so sad. I want to be by myself.”
When Aine goddess of Happiness passed by a few minutes later, Aengus again called for help. But Aine was so happy that she did not look around, hardly concerned about anyone.
It started to rain heavily and Aengus was growing restless and dejected. Just then somebody called out, “Come Aengus young fella, I will take you with me.”
Aengus did not know who was being so magnanimous, but jumped on to the boat, greatly relieved that he would reach a safe place.
On getting off the boat, Aengus’s met Ecne God of Knowledge on the shore near Ballycastle. Puzzled, Aengus inquired, “Ecne, do you know who so generously gave me a lift just when no one else wished to help? I could not make out who it was it was under his heavy cloak”
Old Ecne smiled, “Oh, that was the Dagda God of time.” he said.
“And why would The Dagda stop to pick me and take me to safety?” Aengus wondered.
Ecne smiled with deep wisdom and replied, “Because only Time knows the true greatness of Love and what it is capable of. Only Love can bring peace and great happiness in this world. So you young man are very very very important. When we are prosperous, we overlook love. When we feel important, we forget love. Even in happiness and sorrow we forget love. Only with time do we realise the importance of love”