Otherwise known as The Day of the Dead, the “Dia De Los Muertos” is supposed to be a celebration. But I had my reservations when asked to join Big Sis and Bro-In-Law for the occasion. My head said that I wasn’t ready to “celebrate” my husband’s death. I didn’t want to subject my children to it either. I was assured that it would a happy event.
Even this morning, as I ran with Cindy, I complained about how I wasn’t up for the drive or the festivities at hand. I had much to do as I am leaving at 5:45 am for a business trip (training). My refrigerator was essentially empty, I needed to make keys for those caring for the kids and the dog, and I still needed to pack for the kids and myself. It was an overwhelming task.
Well, I did go, thanks to some incredible acts of kindness. I rode up with Lil’ Sis and her hubby. They delayed our exit so that I could have a bit more time to get things in order. Cindy, my amazing friend and running buddy, did my shopping for me and took YaYa with her so that I could complete the final 4 miles of my 20 mile run.
It was a great event. I should have been dead tired (after waking up early to run 20 miles) but instead, I was energized by some fun and games and loads of yummy food. The only time that tears filled my eyes was when I was presented with this lovely angel which the boys and I can light in remembrance of our love.
The act of celebrating and honoring the deceased may seem strange. I was okay with the torch lighting and candles by the pictures of the family members that we were honoring but I have to admit that I was skeptical about the games. It now makes more sense to me. If you believe that those, whose bodies have died, continue to live as spirit it is easier to “celebrate” their lives.
I am sad that we have lost so many loves ones in the past couple of years. Even if they are spiritually alive, I wish that we’d had more time.
The joy must come to our lives again. We go on. We are living. In addition to the dead, we should celebrate the living. We *should* celebrate our own lives and the richness of caring people that have been there for us in such difficult times.
Hi! I came over from NaBloPoMo. I’m challenging myself to comment on as many blogs as possible this month as well as post.
I’ve always loved the idea of Dia de los Muertos, though I’ve never celebrated it myself. It seems fitting that those that have left us should have a special day dedicated to them to be remembered, cherished, and celebrated. I’m glad you went and found it better than you’d expected!
Happy Posting!
i love that angel.
I also like the idea of a day dedicated to our loved ones who are no longer with us. I’m glad you went to the celebration. It seems to have done you good.
When I was growing up, my mom would talk about Día de los Muertos, but we never celebrated it because she was trying to fit in with more ” North American” traditions to make her in-laws happy… It was good to hear everything was taken care of and you all had a good time. It’s great to feel energized, even after such a long run!
In the tradition of Dia de los Muertos there are three kinds of death: one when your body ceases function, a second when your body returns to the earth, and a final one when no one remembers you.
I think Americans tend to think that in order to stop grieving for someone you have to forget them and I just think that’s untrue (and extremely sad).
I’m so happy you’re finding a way to keep your loved ones from their 3rd death.
That angel is lovely.
The Day of the Dead sounds like a very healthy way to keep someone close to your heart.
Juls,
It sounds like a wonderful day with your family, and a good way to remember.
Looks like a wonderful way to remember. I love your last sentence.
I am glad you enjoyed yourself. Of course the Occasion wasn’t to celebrate a “death” but the “life” of those gone to the heavens before us. Kind of weird but we were also trying to celebrate too many birthdays of those still alive and kicking, hula-ing, push-uping, etc. Hope your trip goes well! XO, Big Sis.
that’s awesome.