Dear Friends,

Dia de los Muertos – Celebrated November 1 and 2.

“The festival is rooted in the ancient Aztec belief that death is a continuation of life. Descendants of the Aztec people exist to this day, primarily in Mexico. The Aztecs, who were native to central Mexico from the 14th to the 16th century, celebrated the deceased with monthlong festivities.”   National Geographic

“The multi-day holiday involves family and friends gathering to pay respects and remember friends and family members who have died. These celebrations can take a humorous tone, as celebrants remember amusing events and anecdotes about the departed.^[7] It is widely observed in Mexico, where it largely developed, and is also observed in other places, especially by people of Mexican heritage.” Wikipedia

Last week I was in my morning meditation when overwhelming grief came over me. I thought about the people I have known and loved, who passed away. I have a list of people I pray for both here and those who have crossed over. Needless to say that morning I was missing those who died, and I cried. Sometimes in our culture we try to “buckle up” or “move on” when someone we love dies. However I also believe we need to allow grief to happen. Let the tears flow, and remember the beautiful times with our beloved family and friends.

I love how our Mexican brothers and sisters celebrate and honor people who have died. Expressing love through celebration is a wonderful way to keep memories alive and well. For we know, we never really die. We just walk through the other side of the doorway. What makes us sad is, we cannot see the person in human form. The door is shut temporarily. However, we can KNOW they exist and are alive and well in God’s dimension of eternal life.

The holidays are upon us and it may sadden us to think we cannot spend time with our beloved ones who have passed on. And yet, we can. Put a chair at table for them. Bring them into your meditation. Light a candle for them. They are always with us and will send messages when we are open, willing and receptive.

I decided to add another votive to my meditation table. This one will be there through holidays, holy days, for those who have passed from my life. I will remember the wonderful times we had, the fun memories as well as the trials.

No one ever dies. They just move on.                                                                         Chief Seattle says, “There is no death, only a change of worlds.”