A new holiday tradition for those mourning the loss of a loved one

Growing up Catholic and more so into my adult years after the passing of close family relatives did I come to respect how November brings All Souls Day and a month dedicated to remembering our loved ones who reached eternal peace.

Leading to November, the Church would ask the congregation to bring photos of their loved ones for the altar as a way of honoring our loved ones. I would lovingly bring a framed photo of my grandmother over the years and intentionally think of her and ask her to pray for me. That Catholic tradition would be the extent of such an ant of remembrance. But it took my daughter's passing to experience a new holiday tradition I am incorporating into my family: The Day of the Dead or Día de los Muertos, which is a holiday traditionally celebrated on Nov. 1 and 2. Many cultures have incorporated this holiday, in particularly in Mexico and other parts of the world. 

Beyond watching the Disney movie Coco, I didn't see this tradition up close and personal from any of my Hispanic friends, but what a treat when the cemetary held this event for families to participate in! Spread over a couple hours, the place was packed! I never saw so many cars fill the cemetary and families hanging out, eating delicious Mexican dishes, colorful yellow and orange marigold flowers, displays and multiple vendors. The mariachi band was the icing on the cake for the event. 

Decorated over many gravesites were beautiful rich yellow and orange displays that honored loved ones. Families were playing music as well and I thought to myself: this is a slice of what heaven must be like. In paradise must exist families and friends gathering, eating delicious home-cooked meals, with kids playing around and being amongst one another. It's true that in death can we get a deeper glimpse of life in its fullness. 

I loved how death was not feared nor dismissed but embraced and welcomed. The families honored their loved ones by just being together like it was just another day. I know my little girl is being spoiled up there, eating delicous home-cooked meals and is surrounded by all my closest relatives and ancestors I have yet to meet. I love that for her. 

So yes, I now embrace this holiday in the mix of the regular, secular holidays. What a treat!