One of us lives on the east coast. One of us lives on the west.

One of us lives in a rural community. One of us lives in a city.

Both of us wander. Both of us witness. Both of us write.

This is a record of what we find.







Saturday, October 31, 2015

Talking With The Dead




All Hallows Eve is tonight; the spooks and demons, witches and goblins will have their night. Tomorrow is All Saints Day. And then it's Day Of The Dead. They say that this time of year, the veil is thin and it’s easier to pass back and forth between the worlds. It’s a good time to make amends, to ask forgiveness, to make peace with the past, to remember loved ones who have gone before us and to give thanks to all the souls whose shoulders we stand on.



Some people like to create a small altar to honor and remember their loved ones who have crossed over; some photographs, a little food, a piece of jewelry, maybe some flowers. Every year SOMARTS presents a Day Of The Dead exhibit, which includes many sensual and provocative altars by members of the arts community. This four minute video will give you a taste:



For more stunning images, go to:
http://www.somarts.org/exhibitions/day-of-the-dead/ and click on PHOTOS to see this year’s offering.

I had started out thinking I would bring this post around to antagonists—to how death is the ultimate antagonist, always just over our shoulder, waiting to put an end to all of our happy plans. It’s not an antagonist you can defeat, but like all great antagonists, it can force us to be our own best self. Death’s constant presence can remind us to live our lives fully and richly. That’s all I’m going to say for now—for more on antagonists, be sure to read Sarah Wones Tomp's post Empathy For The Enemy (with invaluable links!) at Writing On The Sidewalk at:

Take Good Care,

Sharry


3 comments:

  1. Nice! :) When I lived in Mexico City, we celebrated Day of the Dead. (Loved the "dead" bread!) Thanks for reminding me about this tradition! Hope you had a safe Halloween! xo

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  2. Thanks for this reminder - of the day and of the reminder to live and live well.

    (And for the link to my post!)

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  3. Great post on a holiday that - in America, at least - is so often overshadowed by Halloween. And you're right; the threat of death standing nearby can be a great motivator. Because when death comes, it's too late.

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