Happy Day of The Dead

When I was a child, my father took us to visit his mother's grave. He gave us stern warnings that if we didn't stay on the path, serpents and demons would devour us. We heeded the warnings to the letter. 

It didn't help that I've always been able to sense spirits since I was a toddler. Being in a graveyard was the worst. I felt like I was being watched.

As I've gotten older, the fears have dissipated. Most departed souls in my experience have been pleasant.

My most recent experience was early this year when an especially dear friend had died unexpectedly. Her family kept us updated on Facebook and I kept track of her progress faithfully.

One day I was elbow deep in suds scrubbing skillets when I felt a light hand squeeze my shoulder. I turned around and saw nothing, but deep in my core I knew it was my friend saying goodbye.

With wet hands, I immediately checked Facebook. There was no new news. I was relieved, but I couldn't shake the nagging feeling that she was gone. 

But hours later her family updated Facebook. She was gone. I was both heartbroken yet honored that she came to say goodbye before she moved on. It touched me deeply and reaffirmed my faith that we are more than flesh and blood.

There are a lot of scientists purporting that nothing exists after we die.

I've never been so sure that they are dead wrong in this case. In the end we'll all find out.

In Mexico, the Day of the Dead starts November 2nd, also known as All Souls Day everywhere else. 

Today, I wish you Happy Halloween! Celebrate and remember.

If you'd like a deeper look into El Día de los Muertos, might I suggest, Coco. It's a beautifully done film with great cultural insight.