10/29/18

Perhaps it is because I spent 20 years in Mexico,
but as Halloween approaches, I find myself thinking
in terms of Día de los Muertos and missing my
people. In our culture, or should I say, my adopted
culture, we believe the veil between the worlds
grows thinner as Samhain approaches and one can
sense the dead, visit with them, ask for their blessing.
You will find this happening all throughout Hispanic
cultures on October 31st, November 1st and 2nd.
Obviously, I am quite fascinated by culture per se,
the blending of old and new belief systems, the sharing
of such across borders and lands, the commonalities
and the differences. Catholicism plays a part as well;
some believing it may be even more cultural than
religious. I have such a myriad of feelings in this
waiting period. I want the cabin to be ready . . . neat
and clean, altars built, flowers (especially marigolds)
and pots all around, photos of my own dead framed
and placed, special foods prepared . . . and always
tears near the surface. With no warning, I see to
begin conversations and then stop myself, knowing
perhaps I should wait until the 31st. Having said that,
nothing stops me from readiness.

alone with my thoughts
i find myself missing you
longing so longing