Samhain Post from 2021...

As I was working on my post for this weekend, I found my previous one and thought I would reshare! A lot is the same but also different as my Mimi has now passed away. I also bake a lot more and use the real flour and butter. Stay tuned for this week's festivities as I am celebrating Dia De Los Muertos for the first time and even though both holidays honor our loved ones, there are some differences! 

10/31/2021: Today, I honor my loved ones that have passed on. Every year, I invite my ancestors over for a 'dumb supper' which is what pagans called this meal on this ancient Celtic holiday. This year, my 'soul cakes' are gluten free banana nut muffins. I baked some chocolate chip cookies to. Shhh, don't tell them these aren't real floured baked goods. I like to think the smell is an attraction and will entice them to 'stop by'. I ain't fraid of no ghosts. Anyways, I like to think about the memories I have of them and I spend time really reminiscing on Samhain. I do believe that from the moment you are born, you are filled with gifts that are passed down from your ancestors. Some of your best qualities just might be from you great grandmother. My Mimi shared some stories of her father and her fathers father today. I had no idea that they practiced law or that one flew Jennies in WWI. She spoke about their devotion and love for God and Jesus. It clearly was passed down to her as she is a devout Christian and her faith is a constant in her life. Many ways she described her parents are how I would describe her. One of my favorite stories that came from my Grandmother who has passed on, was that her mother made hats out of fancy beads and feathers. Or was that her 2nd cousin? Either way, we are all different. Our individual backgrounds have strengths and even weaknesses. Not only do I appreciate my lineage but I am grateful to my ancestors for the grit & the grace that was passed on to me.
Now, it's not always rainbows and sunshine. I've got the southernest roots I know and they are deep and have seen the darkness. As Johnny Cash said, "What's down in the dark will be brought to the light." On this night, I evoke light and love and pray to God and add on a goddess here and there. I break the ties that bind me to a karmic debt caused by my ancestor. Karmic debts can linger and fester depending on the trauma. Now is the time to offer forgiveness and understanding. Unconditional love is the most powerful thing you can give to your loved ones and yourself. Now, what do you wish to let go of? What is in your life that needs to pass on or simply put, die? Time to cut those cords that are hindering you. Be free. And always choose the LIGHT.