I don’t remember the first time I heard or read about Día de los Muertos, the Mexican celebration of the Day of the Dead, but I fell in love with the tradition, tales, and symbolism. The altars, skulls, personal mementos, flowers (especially marigolds) and even food, are meant to honor those who have passed on from this life. It reminded me of my Catholic remembrance of AllHallowtide, the three days of All Hallows Eve, All Saints Day, and All Souls Day.
We remember, in these Holy Days and prayers, those who have gone before us, These three days are our Catholic “Days of the Dead,”, are days that remind all of us of the reality of heaven and hell, the communion of Saints (officially honored by the Church) and saints (holy ones we might even have known and loved), and those still on their journey of purification, the Holy Souls in Purgatory.
Several years ago, Disney released a delightful movie named Coco, which describes the adventures of a young boy who wants to follow his dream of being a musician, and as a result of an accidental breaking of a photo, encounters ancestors, a trickster, and other characters in the Land of the Dead. It’s a bright and colorful portrayal of Día de los Muertos (but shame on Disney for trying to copyright the phrase and traditions) and is worth watching.
As my friend Judith Valente has described so eloquently in her book, and in many online talks I have attended, The Italian Soul; How to Savor the Full Joys of Life, Italians love to honor their dead loved ones with flowers, pictures, and news clippings of obituaries. While our own family tradition was more subdued, I grew up visiting the cemetery, bringing flowers and saying prayers. In recent years I have placed a small candle (sadly, battery operated, “real” ones, even in tall votives, wouldn’t stay lit) on the tombstones of my parents and grandparents on the evening of All Saints Day (today), to remain lit through the night until All Souls Day, as a symbol of faith, hope and prayer. The light represents Christ, our Light, and honors those who have passed.
As a Benedictine Oblate, Benedict advises us to “keep death daily before our eyes” (Ch4). It’s not an attempt to keep us fearful or to be morbid about life, but rather ready and prepared. It asks us to evaluate the things we do each day in terms of the value they have in living in alignment with God and clarifying our values, so that we focus on the things that are really important.
Memento Mori in Latin means that we must remember that we will die. Again, not to be morbid, but to move us from being complacent about our daily activities and choices. I have tried to live in a manner that values each day and honors the fact that life is fleeting. But, if I am honest, I can’t say that my daily activities have reflected that over the years. That has been changing lately. Perhaps it has been turning 70, and getting the reality check about the number of years, God willing, ahead of me versus behind me. My focus is changing for sure! My goals and “to do” lists are changing. Even as we begin this new month, I have a conscious desire to savor the remaining days of this year, rather than rush through them preparing for activities that feel empty. I want to cherish the days and the time spent with family and friends rather than check off items on a list.
My cousin, recently turned 94, published a book last year, and lives a very active life. She often tells me, “I’m ready, but I tell God that I am not in a hurry.” I like that. I think I would like to be able to say that as well!
Wishing you a week of abundant blessings, Deena
