GHOSTLY INSIGHTS #4

GHOSTLY INSIGHTS BY CINDY

   Four centuries ago renowned philosopher Francis Bacon wrote: “It is as natural to die as to be born”.

Yet for modern Americans death is something to be feared, even ignored. When a loved one passes it’s  time for sorrow and mourning. We are saddened sometimes to the point of depression. We endure the funeral in a state of numbness. After a period of bereavement we move on with our everyday lives as best we can. We make a conscious effort to forget our loss, for it reminds us of our own mortality and makes us afraid.

   This is not the common scenario in most cultures throughout the world. Numerous traditions exist that look upon death from a much different point of view. Many cultures believe as Bacon did, and celebrate death as well as life. This is not to say that the death of a loved one is a joyous time, but rather a time of remembrance and respect. Time is set aside each year to honor the deceased. In Mexico, it is Los Dias de los Muertos –The days of the dead. Day one is November first, called All Saint’s day. This day is for departed children. November second, All Soul’s day, is for remembering adults. During these days graves are cleaned and repaired, flowers decorate them, and special foods are prepared. White candles are lit. These represent the light within each person. In China they celebrate Ching Ming. On this day, families flock to cemeteries to honor their ancestors, which they believe ensures good fortune in the coming year. Offerings are made and a feast prepared.

   There are many mourning rituals practiced in the world. Black clothing is worn, candles lit, processions held, quilts made, and headstones placed on graves. But in America we sometimes tend to ignore our ancestors after a brief period. We remember them only occasionally when we are exposed to a certain song, fragrance, or photograph. On Memorial Day many of us celebrate our day off with a picnic, instead of a visit to the cemetery.

   During this time of year, when the holidays are upon us, we tend to get caught up in the frenzy of it all. It is especially important now to remember our loved ones, both alive and not.  

 This holiday season light a candle, make a list of your departed loved ones, and find one act or one object that will be your remembrance for each of them as you go about your daily life. This simple practice will be your expression of thanks and continuing love. A time for Thanks-giving.