The author shares thoughts on the importance of commemorating the lives and memories of loved ones, both during their lifetime and after they have passed away. Among the many global religious and cultural holidays, Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, holds a special place.
Humanity often fears losing loved ones, and the author notes that despite all the search for love, we cannot keep each other forever. He emphasizes that the idea that farewells may not be final brings comfort.
Day of the Dead, celebrated primarily on November 1st and 2nd in Mexico, merges local indigenous traditions with Catholic rites of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day. Although traditions vary between communities, many families remember children on the first day and adults on the second.
At the heart of this celebration is the belief that departed loved ones return to visit, and they are welcomed by those who love them. The author perceives creating a space for someone, even after their passing, as something tender and beautiful. Families prepare ofrendas, or home altars, decorating them with photographs, candles, bright marigolds, and favorite dishes and drinks for those they honor. Visits and decoration of graves, bringing offerings, and sharing memories are also conducted, passing down traditions from generation to generation.
The author believes that celebrating the life of a loved one whom you still cherish is a very good idea, and wishes for more such moments of remembrance throughout the year.
The author's thoughts on memory arose when he saw Halloween decorations in the cafe across the street in Bristol. The author loves Halloween and has had the opportunity to celebrate it in other parts of the world, such as Nashville and Bristol. Halloween, celebrated on October 31st, has roots in the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, which marked the end of the harvest and the beginning of winter, when it was believed that spirits roamed among the living. Its name derives from the evening before All Saints' Day.
Over centuries, these traditions have transformed into modern costumes, carved pumpkins, and the custom of 'trick or treating.' Seeing these decorations, the author once again thought of Mexico. He imagines the possibility of experiencing Día de los Muertos there and learning about it from people whose families have celebrated it for generations.
While this is not happening yet, the author plans to draw inspiration from this tradition, making time to commemorate those he loved and lost. He might display a photograph, play a favorite song, or cook a favorite dish, creating a small space to say: 'You are still part of my world.' It is also a reminder to call those who remain close.
Regardless of how this year goes—whether in a ghost costume, watching movies like 'Coco' or 'Life of Pi,' or eating all the sweets before anyone knocks on the door—the author wishes everyone a good time. He advises telling loved ones how much you love them, leaving space for those who are missing, and perhaps giving sweets to children. In conclusion, he wishes that life is celebrated as beautifully while one is alive as it is after transitioning to the next life, preferably in the company of loved ones, to great music, and with something delicious, believing that love always finds us, wherever we may be.