A Prayer For The Dead

Many of us observe some sort of 'remembrance of the dead' during holidays, and other family & friends gatherings.

For instance; The Day of the Dead, better known as 'Dia de Los Muertos', is a holiday traditionally celebrated on November 1 and 2. Family and friends gather to pay respects and remember friends and family members who have died. 

Other days, such as October 31 have evolved over time, and through influence of many cultures, into the modern holiday of Halloween.

Over the decades and centuries, Halloween has become arguably less spiritual; now celebrated more broadly as a secular, and commercial occasion.

Still, with many changes in how we celebrate life and death, a flickering flame, all at once so strong, and yet so fragile, candlelight remains entrenched in virtually all these traditions, and used in myriad celebrations of those who have come before.

All through history, candles have provided much more than light. They've come to symbolize divine presence, guidance, spiritual energy, and the connection between the physical and spiritual worlds.

Today, whether for meditation, prayer, or magical rituals, candles are still used to bridge that gap between the mundane and the mystical. The simple act of lighting a candle brings warmth, focus, and intention, drawing us closer to the spiritual forces around us.

Having recently lost a sibling, her spirit, the grief of death, and other family living and crossed over have been on my mind. Others who have long passed may also drift in and out of our thoughts regularly, seemingly on their own accord.

So this small offering of a poem is for Jennifer, and all the rest we've lost along the way -- like Anne, Susan, Phil, Vincenza, Jason, Ida, Sal, Guy, and so many more. On the 31st, I hope to catch a glimpse, a feeling, a moment, a chill, some sense of their presence, however briefly, to honor each of them. Think on all the gifts each of them would bring in life. What we shared together, on this plane.

Perhaps you'll be inspired to leave a note for someone special to you, here on the blog. Or, to simply light a candle.

Meet me when the veil is thin

Where time's gossamer fabric wisps and warps

Intertwining above and below

You & me, we will find each other then.

When the moon is new

I will be waiting there, at the bridge

One single flame to illuminate our way ahead.

Lest our walk be deep with the dark harvest chill

We wrap ourselves in the warm comfort of our memories.