This is the day of All Souls… all souls… everyone we’ve ever loved, even everyone that no one loved. This is the day to remember and celebrate their lives.

Depending where in the world you come from, and what your religious tradition is or isn’t, those who celebrate this tradition will have follow different customs.

Many I know are drawn to the Mexican Dia de los Muertos — it’s a wonderful and inspiring celebration, but my private, undemonstrative ancestors would be pretty uncomfortable with much of what happens. So I celebrate more quietly. No need to disturb the dead — especially if i want the gentle brush of remembrance to continue. So I light a candle, sit and recall, hoping that that won’t overset their balance.

I miss them. I am so grateful for them. They are the ones who taught me to laugh and learn. They certainly taught me to weep and mourn. And oh, they taught me to become a Peacemaker. I give thanks for their lives.

I am so sorry for your loss. I am so grateful you had your beloved in your lives.

and I send a caress of thanksgiving to all those whose lives were less than they could have been, should have been. The Peace of all souls be with us.