11/01/2025
I know that in American culture, Halloween is often remembered for its parties, candies, and costumes — a fun, joyful way to play with the idea of mortality. But we’ve forgotten that this holiday was originally meant to help us face and make peace with the finite nature of life.
In many cultures, the night of celebration is followed by a day of solemn silence — a quiet joy. It’s a time to remember loved ones who have passed, to light candles, lay flowers on graves, and hold space for a different kind of awareness: one that honors impermanence.
Both approaches are necessary.
Yes, this may sound like a gentle critique of our consumer culture — we rarely pause for the contemplation of life and death. But this reflection is not meant to be sad; quite the opposite. When we truly acknowledge how limited our time is, we come alive. We take responsibility for how we live, love, and spend our days.
So this day, connect with your loved ones. Light a candle. Hold space for silence. Remember those who have moved on to another phase — and let their memory bring you closer to the beauty of being here, now.
