“May Jack-o-lanterns burning bright
 Of soft and golden hue
Pierce through the future’s veil and show
What fate now holds for you.”
~Author unknown

Many ancient people of different cultures all believe that October 31st is All Hallows’ ‘ Eve . Celts believed that on this night the boundary between the worlds of the living and the dead become blurred. Halloween is traced back to the Celtic festival of Samhain, when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off roaming ghosts. The following day is the Day of the Dead. In Latin American countries,  they honor deceased loved ones and ancestors by creating altars of the dead’s favorite things and picnicking in the graveyards of their ancestors.  American children have combined many ancient traditions into what we now know as Halloween.

For me it signals the transition from our Indian Summer here on the Northern California coast. Fall harvest is upon us and the air is turning crisp. Leaves change color and then in a final moment, let go as little symbols of death in a final act of life. It is the time of the cold, introspectively we start thinking of the long winters work of going inside to take a good look at ourselves.

I often create some sort of altar. Photographs, favorite things of those who have passed. Food, drink flowers and symbols of the four elements are requirements for each of my altars. This acts as a focal point for my meditations of love. Many think that the veil between worlds this night is frightening. Having lost many people in my life, I look forward to the opportunity of possibly seeing a loved one. Even if only in a dream.

Halloween quilt fabric postcard available at etsy. Click image for more information.