Otherwise known as Halloween, All Hallow's Eve (since Nov 1st is All Hallow's or All Saints day), etc, Samhain is a day to honor the dead. It is a day to speak to them, clear unfinished business with them, say what you couldn't say to them when they were alive... it's a day where you recognize them for protecting you all year round!! And, for me, I am especially thankful, as they help me even more by communicating with me and showing me the Other Side.
Traditionally, you're supposed to leave a light by the window to help Lost Souls find their way home (Jack-o-Lanterns' origins). You're supposed to bake delicious goods and lay them out for a feast of the dead. But what else can you do?
You can spend a quiet hour alone with photographs of deceased loved ones, and speak to them one by one - or collectively - and express your continuing love for them, and appreciation for all that they do, even if you don't always know what it is. Spirits work hard, and they work in obscurity most of the time, so usually their hard work goes unnoticed. Spirits can also get lonely for their family, so let them know you're still around, and that you welcome them to spend time in your home, and around you.
You can also help the living. Contact living family members that you haven't talked to in a while, especially older or sicker family members that may be lonely or unable to participate in their favorite seasonal activities. Write letters to loved ones. The best way to make strong bonds in the next life, is to strengthen the bonds in this life. Let people know that you care.
Another great way to spend this time is to think of what you want to accomplish before you die. Meditating on death is a religion for some Eastern folks, and it is a very intelligent way to remember our temporary existence in the flesh here. Enjoy yourself, don't deny yourself harmless pleasures. The greatest rule of all: do what you will, as long as you're not hurting anyone. Eat some chocolates in a sudsy bubble bath while listening to your favorite music. ;)
Happy Halloween, and a Meaningful Samhain
This weblog documents my experience as someone who communicates with the dead. I will share as much as possible without revealing the person or people that commissioned me to speak with their loved one or loved ones.