Happy Halloween

We've had such a fun time as a family this evening. The boys have been talking about Halloween for ages. It's not such a big tradition in this country, as hard as that might be to believe. It tends to be more scary than family orientated and unfortunately those that do like to celebrate with fun, sweets and pumpkins are criticised. The boys wanted to dress up (very unusual for Jarom) - Jarom as Horrid Henry's dark avenger and Tayler was a cross between Darth Maul 'Star wars' and Superman. We had our own fun as a family and bobbed for apples, carved our pumpkin and watched 'Harry Potter'. The boys had a great time. We only had two 'trick or treaters' and we had some sweets in and wished them a very happy Halloween. We live in a very family friendly neighbourhood and it was great to see dad's out with their children.

Having investigated and done my own research today on the traditions associated with Halloween, it appears to be an amalgamation of several ancient celebrations both celebrating the season and where spirits return to earth for 48 hours - both good and bad for a second chance to 'do what they do'. It's only today's modern slant that has made it evil. I found this quote from Rev George Loane, I liked what he said about Halloween and the celebration of All Saints day. He said - "It was derived originally from an ancient Pagan festival, it has become part of our culture and generally it's an innocent excuse for people to have a good time. Literally, of course, it is the eve of All Hallows - a preparation for the observance tomorrow of the Feast of All Hallows or All Saints. That feast gives the assurance that there is a state of being that stretches beyond our life here on this earth - an affirmation of the essential spiritual nature of human life. People are made for more than can be experienced over our lifetime spent in this world... So this Christian season brings us a comforting reminder that there is a destiny designed for us humans that assures us of a continuing existence."

Although I am not of the same faith as this man I recognise that he has found inspiration in a tradition of the past, he recognises that we can find goodness everywhere that can lift us and strengthen our faith. I agree with that. Unfortunately England seems to be loosing much of it's faith and spirituality and with it the simple fun traditions and neighbourly kindness of celebrations such as Halloween.