Happy? Yes. Day of the Dead

Dia de la Muerta, or Day of the Dead isn't a tradition from my Celtic roots but I love the fact that it is a Pagan celebration that managed to survive the heavy boot of the Catholic Church. Historians estimate the rituals of Dia de la Muerta have been practiced for at least 3000 years in Mexico and originated with the ancient Aztecs. The holiday survived the Spanish conquistadors and forced conversion to Catholicism even though the date was moved (like so many other Pagan holy days) to coincide with the church's calender.

For me the Day of the Dead is a testament to the survival of tradition. At one time those in power were trying to eradicate the Dia de la Muerta rituals, and today people from all over the world celebrate this day, many without truly knowing anything more than it's an opportunity to laugh at our fears about death and honor those who've gone before us.

That's the power of ritual. It survives, though it may be required to morph. And though the younger generation may not even know the roots of the festivals they're participating in. That's why the world needs witchy grandmas and witchy grandpas, to keep days like this from becoming shallow displays, from becoming hollow like old bones.

So Happy Day of the Dead to you. May your ancestors be honored and appeased and may you never let fear of the unknown keep you from enjoying life on this side of the veil.